BUSINESS NEWS BRIEFS: CEP names interim CEO; city of Ocala employee honored
Tamara Fleischhaker [Photo courtesy Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership]
CEP names interim CEO
The Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership has named Tamara Fleischhaker as interim chief executive officer. The appointment follows the departure of Kevin Sheilley, who served as CEO for more than 12 years.
According to her bio on the CEP website, Fleischhaker was CXO and helped oversee programs including advocacy, education, equine initiative, leadership, networking and partner services. She joined the CEP in April of 2006. She has earned the certified chamber executive designation and is a Florida certified chamber professional and U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Institute for Organization Management program graduate. She was the 2016 Professional of the Year for the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals and 2022-23 chair of the board of directors. Her experience includes communications and marketing, brand development, contract management, account management and event production.
“Tamara brings the steady hand and trusted leadership our organization needs during this important transition,” said Charrisse Rivers, chair of the CEP board, in the news release. “Having worked closely behind the scenes with our previous CEO, she knows the heart of the CEP and the momentum we’ve built. Her deep roots in economic development and her calm, capable presence provide the confidence and clarity we need as we move forward.”
“I’m honored to step into this role,” Fleischhaker said in the release. “Our mission has never been more vital, and I’m committed to keeping our team focused, motivated and aligned with the needs of our partners and stakeholders. Together, we will build on the strong foundation that’s already in place and continue forward momentum.”
The national search for a president and CEO is ongoing, in partnership with Waverly Partners, a search firm with experience in chamber and economic development leadership.
City employee named inspector of the year
Michael Brown [Photo courtesy city of Ocala]
The BOAF’s annual awards program celebrates professionals who exemplify exceptional dedication, innovation and leadership in the field of building safety. Brown’s selection recognizes his commitment to upholding the highest standards in building inspection and his contributions to protecting the safety and well-being of the Ocala community, the news release noted.
Brown joined the city of Ocala in 2023. He oversees inspection activities, ensures compliance with building codes and regulations, and supports safe, sustainable development. He will be formally recognized at the BOAF Annual Conference and Expo on June 2.
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