President Announcement: Kyle D. Ray to lead Gilmer County Chamber
On behalf of the Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, we are pleased to announce Kyle D. Ray as the next President and Chief Executive Officer of the Gilmer Chamber. The Board voted unanimously to name Kyle for the position, effective December 2, 2024. He currently serves as Senior Vice President, Director of Branch Services for Builtwell Bank, Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Kyle is a native of Gilmer County and has raised his three children in the community. He has held senior level positions with the Bank of Dalton, Bank of Ellijay, Appalachian Community Bank, and Santek Environmental. He earned a BBA in Management and Finance with a concentration in Accounting from Kennesaw State University and completed many of his undergraduate studies at the Georgia Institute of Technology.
Beyond his professional credentials, Kyle has demonstrated a strong commitment to the community. He previously served as President (now known as Chair) of the Gilmer County Chamber in 2002 and 2003. His service extends to various local and statewide organizations, including the Gilmer Education Foundation, Gilmer County Parks and Recreation Board, Community Bankers Association’s LEAD division, Ellijay-Gilmer County Water and Sewer Authority, Gilmer County Economic Development Authority, Rotary Club of Gilmer County, Relay for Life, Appalachian Domestic Violence Task Force, 515 Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and East Ellijay Baptist Church.
We would also like to take this opportunity to recognize other members of the Search Committee. Each volunteer dedicated untold hours to working through the executive search process and vetting candidates. Other members include Zach Henderson, United Community Bank; Mitchell Pack, ETC; Tram Taylor, Mountain View Gourmet; and Katie Vaughn, Engelheim Vineyards.
We invite you to join us in welcoming Kyle as he begins his new role. Your commitment, support, and active participation in the Gilmer County Chamber continue to drive our community forward. Thank you for being a vital part of our growth, and we look forward to seeing you at an upcoming Chamber event!