Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber President Christie Moore Stepping Down Oct. 30

VALDOSTA – Christie Moore will depart as President and CEO of the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce, effective October 30, following nearly six years of service and leadership. The Chamber announced Moore's departure in an email to its members late Thursday, October 1, 2026.

During Moore’s tenure, the Chamber strengthened its role as a key advocate for the Valdosta-Lowndes business community, according to the announcement. The organization expanded its influence locally and across Georgia, navigating significant challenges facing businesses in recent years.

Moore stated that it had been "one of the greatest privileges of my professional life" to serve the Chamber's members and the Valdosta-Lowndes community. She also expressed gratitude for working alongside business leaders, volunteers, community partners, and the dedicated Chamber team. The Chamber announcement emphasized that a hallmark of her leadership was a renewed focus on advocacy, ensuring the business community's voice was represented in decisions affecting the region’s economic future.

A notable achievement during the COVID-19 pandemic recovery was Moore and the Chamber championing the creation of a small business grant program. This initiative was funded through the City of Valdosta’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocation, which ultimately secured $1 million in ARPA funding for local small businesses, the Chamber stated.

Moore also played a key role in the successful campaign to renew the regional Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, or TSPLOST. This measure, approved by voters, is projected to generate approximately $820 million for transportation infrastructure projects across 18 South Georgia counties over the next decade. These funds are intended to support critical investments in roads, bridges, and other infrastructure vital for the region's continued economic growth, according to the Chamber.

Her leadership extended beyond the local community. In 2025, Moore served as chair of the Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (GACCE). This role involved representing and supporting chamber professionals throughout Georgia, providing Valdosta-Lowndes with a strong voice within the statewide chamber profession, the Chamber announcement said.

Under Moore’s guidance, the Chamber undertook a deliberate effort to define its purpose and future role in Valdosta and Lowndes County. This resulted in a new mission statement: “To be the catalyst for business growth, connector of people, cultivator of ideas and resources, and champion for a thriving community.” The Chamber also established a vision "to be the hub of a collaborative and prosperous community." These principles now guide the Chamber’s work and its strategic efforts to increase member value, strengthen advocacy, cultivate partnerships, and bring stakeholders together to address community opportunities and challenges, the Chamber announcement noted.

This commitment to serving as a connector and community partner proved especially critical following Hurricane Helene. The storm severely damaged the historic Barber-Pittman House, which had been the Chamber’s home for more than four decades. Moore led the organization through more than 18 months of displacement after the storm, ensuring the Chamber remained operational and continued serving its members. A partnership with Valdosta State University provided the Chamber with a temporary home while the team worked with community partners to oversee the extensive restoration of the historic property.

Moore reflected on these difficult times, stating that she was proudest of moments that came during challenging circumstances. She noted that watching the team continue to serve members and the community after Hurricane Helene, despite their own displacement, underscored what is special about the organization. Moore affirmed that when facing difficulties, the team "kept serving."

Moore further attributed the Chamber's accomplishments to its members, staff, board members, volunteers, and community partners. She expressed pride in what they built together and confidence in the Chamber’s future.

Jonathan Miller of Miller Hardware, who serves as chairman of the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber Board of Directors, expressed gratitude for Moore’s leadership and service. Miller stated that her commitment to the organization, its members, and the broader business community has made a lasting impact, adding that the board is deeply appreciative of her contributions.

Moore will work with Chamber leadership to support a smooth transition process. Her last day with the Chamber is set for October 30. Additional information regarding the Chamber’s leadership transition will be announced by the Board of Directors.