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Leadership Center

Leadership Development Designed to Empower Success at Every Career Stage

The Leadership Center is the comprehensive resource for Chamber members seeking high-quality leadership development programs. Catering to professionals at all career stages, from emerging leaders to experienced executives, our programs focus on practical skills, hands-on experience and meaningful community connections.

2025 Leadership Programs
Leadership Charleston

Developing Leadership Qualities with Purpose

Designed to strengthen both individuals and organizations, our offerings enhance key leadership skills like strategic thinking, team management, communication and adaptability among others.

Through community-centered education and real-world leadership experience, participants gain valuable insights, a clear sense of purpose and a strengthened network to support their professional and personal growth while driving positive change in the Charleston region.

Leadership Development Plans for Organizations

The Leadership Center simplifies leadership development for organizations by providing mapped program pathways, making it easier for organizations to advance their leaders without creating their own curriculum. These programs foster employee growth, build essential skills and strengthen professional development while enhancing retention. Investing in your people through the Leadership Center equips your workforce for success in an ever-evolving business environment.

Leadership Development for Individuals

The Leadership Center offers a wealth of opportunities for those looking to enhance personal their leadership skills. Our programs feature expert-led training, peer networks and mentorship designed to accelerate career growth. Whether you're refining your leadership abilities or preparing for a new role, our diverse offerings are tailored to help you develop the skills needed to succeed.

Interested in Learning More About the Leadership Center?

Contact Us

Leadership Center Programs

Leadership Charleston

Designed for established professionals 10+ years into their career who serve in leadership or executive roles. 

Are you ready to expand your horizons and deepen your understanding of the forces shaping Charleston? Leadership Charleston is your gateway to immersive learning on the critical issues influencing our region and its businesses. By joining this program, participants gain firsthand insight into Charleston’s unique challenges and opportunities, directly from the leaders who drive change.

Metro Leadership Visit

Designed for key regional stakeholders, including business and nonprofit leaders, elected officials and community influencers, aiming to learn from experts around the country and foster connections to drive progress in the Charleston region.

Step outside the Charleston region and gain firsthand insights into innovative solutions and strategies from cities across the country who have experienced similar challenges and opportunities to our region. The Metro Leadership Visit is an unparalleled opportunity for Charleston’s business leaders to experience how other cities tackle shared challenges, providing fresh perspectives, proven tactics and a network of like-minded leaders committed to shaping Charleston’s future.


Manager Institute

Designed for mid-career leaders with over eight years of professional experience or someone who has advanced from being an individual contributor to managing teams or other individuals.

For managers, stepping into a leadership role can feel overwhelming. Navigating complex team dynamics, balancing workloads and handling difficult conversations are just a few challenges faced daily. Managers Institute provides the tools and strategies to tackle these obstacles with confidence, setting leaders up for long-term success.

Minority Business Accelerator

Designed for business owners and executives looking to scale their established business or organization. 

The Lowcountry Minority Business Accelerator (MBA) is designed for ambitious minority business owners determined to scale their companies, drive measurable growth and position themselves as leaders in their industries. This transformative year-long program offers the tools, insights and connections needed to help your business reach peak performance.


Leadership Discovery

Designed for high-potential, emerging leaders, within 5-8 years of their career start, seeking mentorship and guidance to refine their leadership approach.

Empowering the next generation of leaders, Leadership Discovery develops more confident, self-aware leaders by equipping them with an understanding of their personal leadership style through learning from top business leaders from across the Charleston region.


Insightful Leadership

Designed for those who are dedicated to creating positive work environments where people feel respected, supported and empowered to contribute fully.

Insightful Leadership equips professionals to lead with intention, empathy and clarity, qualities that not only enhance personal effectiveness but also strengthen team dynamics and organizational health. Participants will walk away with practical tools to inspire trust, navigate complex situations and create an environment where people, our greatest assets, are valued.


Civic Leaders Academy

Designed for those who desire to serve on a board, commission, county council, city council or in the State House.

The Civic Leaders Academy is designed for individuals who aspire to make a meaningful impact in their communities by running for public office or serving on boards and commissions. This program offers an unparalleled opportunity to develop the leadership skills, political insight and network necessary to make a difference at the local and regional level.

Interested in Learning More About the Leadership Center?

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Leadership Center Communities

The Leadership Center offers communities designed to foster connections and professional growth among young professionals and women in business. Charleston Young Professionals (CYP) and Thrive provide supportive environments where members can share knowledge, expand their networks and access valuable resources. Whether seeking professional development, mentorship, collaboration opportunities or simply a place to connect, these communities offer the support and inspiration needed to succeed.

Leadership Communities


Thrive

Designed for women in business seeking to build a supportive professional network.

Women in business are breaking barriers and shaping the future of business in our region. Thrive celebrates their achievements, amplifies their voices and empowers their leadership. Thrive is more than a program;it’s a community where women connect, share insights and inspire action.


Charleston Young Professionals

Designed for young professionals, generally between the ages of 21 and 40, looking to connect and build their professional network.

The early years of your career are more than just a routine, they’re your foundation for growth, purpose and impact. This is the time to challenge yourself, connect with driven peers who are as eager to succeed as you are and gain the skills that will fuel your future success. Charleston Young Professionals (CYP) is here to help you make the most of every opportunity. Whether you’re ready to expand your network, elevate your leadership or push your career to new heights, CYP is the space where ambition, growth and community meet.

Latest Leadership Center News

Leadership Center Team

Celeste Granger
Senior Vice President of Programs & Initiatives
843.805.3031
Contact Celeste
Therese Gordon
Associate Vice President of Leadership
843.805.3007
Contact Therese
Olivia Vernon
Manager of Workforce & Education
843.471.1233
Contact Olivia