The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development has recently gone through a reorganization and will solely focus on Chamber programs, services, and events to benefit their members. Under the new structure, the Board of Directors have appointed Megan Barfield as the new executive director of The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce. 

Barfield brings to the new position a passion for and experience in the Chamber industry, said AJ Chrest, chairman of the Board for the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development. Having served as the Member Relations Director for three years, she knows and understands the importance of providing outstanding customer service to the more than 550 members of the organization.  

She was previously a part of the CPI (CUNA) team and worked at the Golden Belt Community Foundation for three years. In addition, Barfield just completed her first year of Chamber Institute for Organizational Management – a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The institute is the premier nonprofit professional development program for association, chamber, and nonprofit professionals fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities. 

“Megan is a great fit for the restructured organization as she has played a key role in every aspect of Chamber operations for several years,” Chrest said. “She is creative with marketing, a great sales person, skilled with member relations, and works extremely well with our volunteers.” 

Under Barfield’s direction the Great Bend Chamber will continue to promote and improve the business climate in the city of Great Bend through its services and partnerships that encourage growth and assist existing and new businesses in reaching their business goals, Chrest said. 

“The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development constantly works to be the voice of local business and the visionary advocacy organization for Great Bend and economic area,” Chrest said. “The organization strives to create a business climate that enhances growth and expansion opportunities for existing businesses, while simultaneously attracting new business.”

Areas of focus include: 

• Advocacy for Business

• Community Marketing and Promotion

• Investment in Our Future

• Chamber Services