The Greater East Hampton Chamber of Commerce recently announced a new executive director, Susanne Kelly. Ms. Kelly comes to the chamber with a sales and production background, having worked in advertising for 20 years.
“Mostly, I want to foster a real feeling of community, especially in the off-season here,” Ms. Kelly said in an interview this week. “There’s a huge community out here that could be better served.” Ms. Kelly also discussed the people’s desire for a “touchstone,” which she hopes she can help provide through the chamber.
“I am excited to bring all of our hamlets together to become a larger, stronger, and more united year-round community,” Ms. Kelly said in a press release. “Together, we can create vibrant programming and thriving commerce year round.”
After moving to East Hampton full time three years ago, Ms. Kelly has been involved with the Hamptons International Film Festival, the Sag Harbor Cinema, the Hamptons Whodunit event, and the Neo-Political Cowgirls, all nonprofits. Before her full-time move, Ms. Kelly split her time between Los Angeles and East Hampton.
At the film festival, Ms. Kelly volunteered and handled guest relations. Her interest in film also propelled her to help raise money for the Sag Harbor Cinema during the pandemic. She has additionally volunteered with Meals on Wheels and the Springs Food Pantry.
The long-dormant chamber recently rebranded itself the Greater East Hampton Chamber of Commerce and aims to represent businesses in both the heart of the village and the surrounding areas.