By Shannon McFarlin News Director
Paris, Tenn.–Paris-Henry County Chamber CEO Travis McLeese formally announced his resignation this morning and said he has accepted a management position at Total Tech Solutions.
McLeese has been Chamber CEO since 2017 and has overseen a period of great growth for the Chamber, spearheading huge and numerous events, notably the Tennessee River Jam which draws thousands to the area.
The resignation is effective immediately, with meetings at Total Tech scheduled for this morning to determine his role there. “I’ll be on the leadership team,” he said, “but an official hasn’t been decided yet.” Total Tech handles IT resources for commerccial, residential and industrial entities, he said.
McLeese said, “I believe I have made a great contribution to this community, and hope that I can continue to do so in other ways, but at this time I have to do what is best for me and my family. Change is hard for everyone. No question about that. I have poured my heart and soul into my work for the past five years. I take great pride in what has been accomplished and look forward to my next chapter with the team at Total Tech Solutions.”
At Total Tech, which has offices in Murray and Union City, McLeese said, “I look forward to utilizing my skill set to enhance the team that is in place as we work together to help the company grow to the next level.”
Chamber President Justin Oliver thanked McLeese for his service to the Chamber. The Chamber Board will be meeting soon to begin the search for a new Executive Director, he said.
“In the meantime, we have an incredibly talented staff that will operate the Chamber during this transition,” Oliver said. “We have several exciting events planned heading into the holiday season and I have no doubt that our team will put together an experience that will be better than ever.”
Kasey Muench will anchor the Chamber until a new Director is named, he said, with help from Project Coordinator Rachel Steedly and Administrative Assistant Ivey McWherter.
McLeese has been involved with community service since he was 16 years old, serving as Assistant Director at the Krider Performing Arts Center, followed by Assistant Director at the Paris-Henry County Arts Council. He also has worked with Bethel University’s Renaissance program.
McLeese said, “I hope that everyone will continue to invest in the Chamber, participate in every way possible and further the progress we have made.”
Photo: Travis McLeese, left, and Justin Oliver at this morning’s announcement. (Shannon McFarlin photo).