Annapolis, Maryland – The Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce announced a leadership transition February 2, 2026, with President and CEO Mark Kleinschmidt concluding seven years of service and Amy Berry promoted to succeed him in the top executive role.
Kleinschmidt led the chamber, one of Maryland’s largest, through substantial membership growth and major challenges, most notably the COVID-19 pandemic. His tenure emphasized business advocacy, resource delivery, and organizational stability amid economic uncertainty. He will remain through February 27, 2026, to support a smooth handover.
“Anne Arundel County is an extraordinary place to live and to build a business. Our business community is not only driven but it is innovative and deeply committed to making the county stronger for everyone,” Kleinschmidt said. “As I transition into a new role, I’m grateful for the opportunity to have served this remarkable community. The Chamber is well-positioned for continued success, as Amy steps into the President & CEO role.”
Steven A. Brown, chairman of the Chamber’s Board of Directors and a partner with McAllister, DeTar, Showalter & Walker LLC, praised Kleinschmidt’s contributions. “We are incredibly grateful to Mark for his seven years of service and leadership,” Brown said. “Mark guided the Chamber through one of the most challenging periods our business community has ever faced, while keeping our mission front and center. His impact on this organization and on Anne Arundel County will be felt for years to come, and we wish him nothing but success in his next chapter.”
Amy Berry assumes the President and CEO position effective February 2, 2026. Berry joined the chamber in November 2019, leading Membership and Marketing efforts that drove stronger member engagement, new partnerships, and organizational expansion. She is a 2025 graduate of Leadership Anne Arundel. Before relocating to Maryland, Berry held progressively responsible chamber roles in the Dallas region for a decade, including Events Coordinator, Membership & Marketing Director, and President.
“I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and for the incredible support of our Board and members,” Berry said. “It is truly an honor to serve the community that helped shape who I am—both professionally and personally. I look forward to building on our momentum, strengthening our partnerships, and ensuring our members have the advocacy, resources, and support they need to succeed.”
The board expressed strong support for Berry, citing her extensive chamber experience, community ties, and dedication to the organization’s mission. Her appointment also highlights continued advancement of female leadership within the chamber.
The Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce represents thousands of businesses across the county, providing networking, professional development, policy advocacy, and economic development support. The transition occurs as the chamber maintains focus on addressing workforce needs, transportation improvements, housing affordability, and other issues affecting Southern Maryland’s largest jurisdiction by population.
Kleinschmidt’s departure and Berry’s promotion mark a planned succession designed to preserve continuity while positioning the organization for future priorities. The chamber serves as a key voice for Anne Arundel County’s business community, connecting members to regional opportunities and collaborating with local government, education institutions, and economic development partners.
