The Indy Chamber has announced a trio of key leadership appointments: Blaine Zimmerman has been named chief talent and marketing officer, Joe Pellman has been promoted to vice president of talent and image and Aletha Dunston has been appointed vice president of strategic initiatives. These moves are set to enhance the Chamber’s talent, marketing and redevelopment efforts.
Prior to his appointment, Zimmerman was the CEO of INvets and worked to attract veterans and their families to Indiana. In his role, he generated $30 million in economic impact, and his team and budget more than doubled within two years.
His civic leadership involvement with the Indiana War Memorial Foundation echoes his 16 years of military leadership experience as he steps into the new role, where he will lead the regional talent and work to enhance the Chamber’s engagement.
“I am deeply committed to the success of our community and passionate about making the Indianapolis region a thriving place for all,” Zimmerman said in a press release. “Joining the Indy Chamber allows me to further contribute to the community I care about and to work alongside a dedicated team focused on fostering a vibrant environment for talent and business.”
Pellman has been a member of Indy Chamber for more than 11 years where he played a pivotal role in several successful initiatives like the Accelerate Indy economic development strategy, the “Transit Drive Indy” campaign, the Rapid Response Hub and the Life in Indy initiative.
“Blaine’s demonstrated success attracting talent to the Hoosier state, and Joe’s decade-long stewardship of our marketing efforts make both the perfect fit to lead this critical area of focus for our organization in the coming years,” Matt Mindrum, President and CEO of the Indy Chamber, said in a press release. “Developing, retaining, and attracting talent is the heart of our strategy to further the Indy region’s position as the fastest growing and most attractive in the Midwest.”
In the newly created role of vice president of strategic initiatives, Dunston brings a wealth of knowledge from experience in citywide development and revitalization initiatives. Dunston will oversee strategic initiatives and project management, implement community-wide development strategies and promote investment across the region.
“I am honored to take on the role of Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at the Indy Chamber. A career dedicated to helping communities implement complex community visions has provided valuable insight into evolving redevelopment patterns and strategies,” Dunston said in a press release. “I am passionate about Indy’s potential and excited to work with community partners and the talented team at the Indy Chamber to drive impactful regional initiatives and the mission of the organization forward.”
For more information about Indy Chamber, visit indychamber.com.
Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.