North Gwinnett News

As the newly appointed Chair of the Gwinnett Chamber Board of Directors for 2025, Brad Carr has outlined his mission to support local businesses in an evolving economy. Carr emphasizes the Chamber's strength in diversity, vision, and action-oriented members. "When we all pull together in Gwinnett, everyone benefits," he states. "We’re focused on engaging more businesses, leveraging new ideas and creating more opportunities for businesses."

Carr assumes leadership at a time when the Gwinnett Chamber has experienced growth and recognition, including being named U.S. Chamber of the Year in 2023 and Georgia’s Chamber Executive of the Year in 2024 for CEO Nick Masino. He aims to maintain this momentum by implementing a three-year strategic plan with monthly actionable steps. "In January, for instance, the board matched local businesses seeking interns with college students looking for experience," Carr explains. This initiative helps local businesses find needed assistance while building future talent within Gwinnett.

A significant focus for Carr is ensuring inclusivity within the Chamber across industries and company sizes, reflecting Gwinnett's diverse business community. “I want our organization to continue to grow and to reach out to people who may think the Chamber isn’t the place for them,” he mentions.

Carr's career path mirrors Gwinnett’s business evolution. As a partner at Andersen, Tate & Carr — one of suburban Atlanta’s largest law firms — he has witnessed regional transformations over three decades. The firm expanded from a modest practice into a full-service legal entity with 35 attorneys covering various specializations including corporate law and personal injury. “We try to cover every need in our community,” says Carr.

Carr believes that Gwinnett's success depends on business owners considering their broader role within the community. “It’s easy to get caught up in day-to-day operations,” he notes but stresses that investing in community success benefits everyone collectively.

He urges businesses to engage consistently with Chamber programs like networking events and educational sessions as long-term involvement builds beneficial relationships over time.

Looking forward, Carr is optimistic about Gwinnett’s future driven by pro-business policies and strong infrastructure fostering growth across sectors. He sees opportunities arising from new small businesses needing support services which professional service firms can provide.

"As Chair," concludes Carr, "I want to ensure that no matter who you are or where your business is in its growth, you see the Gwinnett Chamber as a partner." The mission remains clear: championing business through connection and collaboration ensures collective success.