Joseph Young Selected as President & CEO of Nebraska Chamber

LINCOLN, Nebraska – June 5, 2026 – The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry has selected Joseph Young, who has vast experience in government affairs and business development, as its next president & chief executive officer.
 
Young is not new to the NE Chamber, having served as executive vice president at the NE Chamber in 2015-2018.
 
A seasoned business and public affairs leader, Young has spent more than 20 years working at the intersection of economic development, government relations, and private-sector growth. In addition to his role at the NE Chamber, his career includes executive leadership positions at Sampson Construction, Cox Communications, the Greater Omaha Chamber, and the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, all in Nebraska; and at AgAmerica Lending LLC, and Blue Tide Ventures LLC in Florida, where he is currently managing partner.
 
In addition to leading successful business development and public policy initiatives, Young has extensive experience building coalitions, working with elected officials, and advancing strategies that strengthen economic competitiveness and investment. He holds an MBA from Nebraska Wesleyan University and a bachelor's degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
 
"I am honored to join the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry and to have the opportunity to serve Nebraska's business community once again,” Young said. “Together with our members, policymakers, and community leaders, I look forward to advancing policies and programs that strengthen Nebraska's economy, support job creation, and create opportunities for all Nebraskans."
 
Pat Keenan, chair of the NE Chamber Board, said Young “checked all of the boxes” for the Chamber CEO role.
 
“Not only does Joseph have extensive experience leading both state and Omaha chamber government relations, but he’s worked in business development and government affairs,” Keenan said. “The array of experience in the roles he’s had, combined with his demonstrated ability in leading teams, building culture, and managing with accountability, makes him a great fit for the Nebraska Chamber. He’s a Nebraskan, and we’re pleased to welcome him to the team.”
 
Former state senator Matt Williams has served as interim president of the NE Chamber since February and was part of the selection process.
 
Young will begin his new role with the NE Chamber in mid-July.
 
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