Leadership gaps aren’t just HR issues, they’re business risks. When organizations overlook leadership development, they often experience symptoms that show up across the board: stalled decision-making, low employee engagement and high turnover. These challenges are expensive, disruptive and ultimately prevent businesses from achieving long-term success.
Yet surprisingly, only 5% of businesses implement leadership training at all levels, according to Zippia. That means the majority of companies are relying on leaders, new and experienced, who may not have the tools or support they need to thrive.
The consequences are real. Poor leadership can reduce team morale, stall innovation and increase burnout. On the flip side, companies that invest in leadership development are 1.5 times more likely to be high-performing, according to the Association for Talent Development. Strong leaders create clarity, inspire productivity and drive results.
Today’s business environment only adds to the urgency. The Harvard Business Review’s 2024 Global Leadership Development Study found that nearly half of learning and development leaders (48%) ranked emotional and social intelligence as top priorities for leadership success. In a world where change is constant and workplace dynamics are evolving, leaders must be able to navigate complexity with empathy, adaptability and insight.
Simply put: leadership doesn’t just happen. It’s built. If your business isn’t building strong leaders, you’re leaving performance, and potential, on the table.
“The Leadership Center provides a comprehensive leadership track, from rising talent to executive leaders, allowing companies to focus on other priorities, confident that their team’s development is well-supported.”
Therese Gordon, Associate Vice President of Leadership
Meeting the Moment: The Chamber’s Expanded Leadership Center
The Charleston Metro Chamber’s Leadership Center is designed to do just that. It offers a full spectrum of leadership development programs, aligned with the real-world needs of employers and professionals across industries.
From emerging professionals to experienced executives, the Chamber provides a clear leadership path to build confident, impactful leaders. In 2025, the Leadership Center added new programs, like Managers Institute and Insightful Leadership, to address specific member needs and help organizations meet the demands of an evolving workforce.
“In response to our region’s evolving landscape and leadership skills need, we thoughtfully curated learning opportunities designed to develop well-rounded, future-ready leaders,” said Therese Gordon, Associate Vice President of Leadership at the Chamber. “These individuals will be equipped to make an impact within their organization and in the broader business community.”
“Our program offerings are meant to take the stress off businesses,” Gordon said. “The Leadership Center provides a comprehensive leadership track, from rising talent to executive leaders, allowing companies to focus on other priorities, confident that their team’s development is well-supported.”
Leadership development is often one of the most difficult areas for organizations to build internally. It can drain time, energy and resources. That’s why the Chamber designed its Leadership Center to ease the burden for employers. “Our offerings are meant to take the stress off businesses,” Gordon said. “The Leadership Center provides a built-in leadership track, from newer professionals to executive leadership, so companies can focus on other priorities and know their team’s development is in good hands.”
Applications Now Open: Insightful Leadership and Leadership Charleston
At the core of the Leadership Center are two standout programs that exemplify its approach to thoughtful, intentional development: Insightful Leadership and Leadership Charleston.
Insightful Leadership, new in 2025, is a four-session program guided by cultural strategist and leadership expert Kenya Dunn. With an emphasis on emotional intelligence, collaboration and real-world leadership challenges, the program is built for professionals who want to lead with intention, perspective and courage.
Participants engage in deep conversations, explore their own leadership styles and learn how to make decisions that elevate both people and outcomes. Whether you’re managing a team or influencing across departments, Insightful Leadership is designed to help you grow with purpose.
Leadership Charleston remains a cornerstone of the Chamber’s leadership offerings. This immersive, yearlong program connects participants to the critical issues facing the Charleston region, from infrastructure and education to economic development and equity. It equips business leaders with the regional awareness, relationships and insight needed to serve as informed, engaged changemakers.
Graduates leave with a broader understanding of the community and how they can play an active role in shaping its future, both in the boardroom and beyond. Applications for both the 2026 Leadership Charleston Class and Insightful Leadership are currently open.
Invest in People. Grow the Region.
Leadership development is not a quick fix. It’s a long-term investment that pays off in stronger teams, more agile businesses and a healthier business climate. The Charleston Metro Chamber is committed to building that future through its Leadership Center.
Whether you’re looking to upskill a new manager or connect a senior leader with deeper regional context, the Leadership Center offers a solution that meets your needs and delivers measurable impact.
Strong leaders build strong companies. And strong companies build thriving communities. Now’s the time to invest in both.
Learn more about the Chamber’s leadership programs at charlestonchamber.org/leadership.
