(KNZA)--The selection of a new Director for the Holton/Jackson County Chamber of Commerce has been finalized.  

Chosen for the position is Elise McLeod, a native Kansan who currently resides in the Flint Hills in Butler County. 

No stranger to the local area, McLeod says accepting the position of Chamber Director will bring her closer to her parents. “I've been coming to Jackson County for 28-years, on a very regular basis, to visit two of my favorite people,” McLeod tells MSC News. “That would be Chuck and Helen Abramson, also known as Mom and Dad.” 

The Wichita State University graduate brings with her a broad range of knowledge related to her new role, having overseen many aspects of finance, information systems and economic development, with an emphasis on government affairs and public relations. “I've been accused of having more energy than a Girl Scout, plus with my strong knowledge in economic development, I think that's going to play a major role.”

Also included among her past roles was working for the City Manager for the City of Wichita, where she obtained sponsorship of area businesses for festival and special events. 

McLeod has already begun to formulate plans and goals for the local Chamber as she heads into her new role. “What I would like to see, without getting too specific, is more of a cohesion. I'd like to build a bridge, if you will, between the local businesses, and not just in Holton but in the surrounding areas as well, in other words, all of Jackson County. There's a lot of stakeholders here and I really want to get to know each and every one of them personally.” 

McLeod will replace resigning current Chamber Director Carolyn McKee, and officially steps into the role November 30th.  However, McLeod will begin occasional work in the office this week, under the guidance of McKee.