Emily Medlock takes the helm of the Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce Monday, stepping into the role of interim executive director as the organization navigates a leadership transition that impacts the entire northwest corner’s business landscape.
The appointment was announced by the chamber’s board of directors late last week, confirming Medlock will serve until a permanent successor is selected. Brandom Gengelbach, who has served as President and Chief Executive Officer, will step down from the top job on Saturday. However, Gengelbach is not retiring quietly; the release states he will remain on staff through the transition to assist the board and current employees.
Medlock’s appointment brings a mix of internal promotion and local industry experience. Just months ago, in May 2026, she joined the chamber as Director of Business Development. Before that, she spent three years at Blake Street, the Bentonville social club known for its role in the city’s hospitality and networking scene, most recently serving as Director of Membership and General Manager.
Situational awareness around this change is crucial for businesses across Benton County. The Chamber is more than an administrative office; it sits in the center of the region’s economic activity, hosting the annual Bentonville Business Summit and guiding the paid-for initiatives that keep the downtown Square vibrant. A smooth transition here means continuity for the thousands of members who rely on the chamber for tax advocacy, policy guidance, and networking opportunities.
Incoming Interim Leadership
Medlock immediately emphasized the need for stability and member focus. In a news release following the announcement, she stated, “I’m honored by the Board’s confidence and excited to work alongside our staff, members and partners. Our members are at the heart of everything we do.”
Her focus will likely center on the immediate needs of the membership base. Working from the chamber’s downtown offices, she will be tasked with maintaining the high level of member services that define the organization right now. With Gengelbach’s assistance, Medlock plans to advance upcoming programs that keep the business community engaged and active throughout the changing seasons.
Looking toward the latter half of the decade, the release notes Medlock is already supporting the planning structure for 2027. This signals that big programs, infrastructure advocacy, and economic development initiatives are currently in their final stretch of preparation. The interim nature of her role means the board will soon likely begin a search for a permanent CEO, a process that will be critical for maintaining momentum in a city that sees more business news than almost anywhere else in Arkansas.
Local
Source: NWA Democrat Gazette
