By Miles Flynn | Southern Indiana Business Report
SALEM — Erik Bush is getting busy as the new executive director of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. On the job since June 29, Bush took over for Tara Kritzer after she left this spring to work in her family contracting business.
The chamber’s a natural fit for Bush’s enthusiasm and his professional experience. During the last several years, he’s earned his bachelor’s in business administration from Indiana University, attended the Indiana Chamber Executive Association’s Hoosier Chamber Academy, received his certificate in chamber of commerce management, achieved designation as a Chamber Professional, attended many ICEA conferences, mentored chambers, and gotten to know other chamber leaders from around the nation as a contributor in the Chamber Professional group. His previous chamber work in nearby Madison also put him in touch with his two predecessors in Washington County.
“After a small break in the chamber world, I decided to jump back in and continue my path in my career,” Bush shared. “I have always had a passion for helping others. Working for a chamber allows me to help businesses while utilizing my bachelor’s degree.”
Bush has spent much of these early days on the job getting acclimated with his new duties, and one big thrill so far has been the opportunity to work in an office right downtown, surrounded by so much history. “Every day, when I go to work, I realize how fortunate I am to have been selected to work in such a beautiful, historic town,” he said. “My office is on the second floor of the courthouse, and when I turn the corner and see that huge tower… it brings a smile to my face! The first day in my office, I took pictures from my office windows to show off my view to my previous coworkers and my sister!”
Salem’s proximity to Madison — and family — is important to Bush. “I wear multiple hats with my sisters… brother, friend and patriarch,” Bush said, “and I wouldn’t want it any other way!”
Bush is also pleased with the working relationships he’s already formed with the members of the chamber’s board of directors. “It has been a blessing to work with my board,” he said. “They have been very supportive and encouraging in the short time I’ve been in this position. I couldn’t ask for a better group of people to work with, and they seem to have the same vision I have for this chamber! I love how I get random texts throughout the week from them telling me about potential businesses coming to the area, wanting to introduce me to a pillar in the community, or just to ask me how my week has been.”
While Bush has only had a chance to meet a handful of businesspeople and other residents so far, he’s eager to get to know as many folks as he can. “Everyone I have met has been very positive and welcoming, and I look forward to meeting more and working with them!” he related. “I still have a list of people I would like to sit down and chat with, but everyone in this community is very busy working on huge projects. I can’t wait to roll up my sleeves and jump in!”
With the experience here so far, and the potential he sees in Washington County, Bush is very excited to do all he can to help its businesses and communities prosper. An effort he’s been concentrating on is updating the chamber’s branding and its marketing through its website and existing social media presence as well as rolling out new LinkedIn and Instagram accounts to take the organization’s message to even more people.
Looking ahead, Bush said he has several new programs in mind that he’ll be working with local partners to develop further. He’s also thinking about some new benefits the chamber can add for its members. He plans to reveal more soon through the chamber’s email blasts and at the organization’s Nov. 6 annual dinner.
Another goal is attending the US Chamber’s Institute for Organization Management. “It is a four-year commitment and would develop my skills and increase my knowledge to a whole new level,” Bush explained. “It will open so many doors for me in my career and would introduce me to so many resources to offer to our members and this community!”
In the meantime, he’ll be working on the chamber’s next major event, its annual Friday Night on the Square. The happening is coming up on Sept. 17 from 6-9 p.m. as part of Old Settlers Days.