Williams named interim president of NE Chamber
Will remain in office until permanent selection chosen
By Forrest HershbergerPress release
LINCOLN, Neb. — Matt Williams of Gothenburg, former state senator and longtime board member of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry, has agreed to lead the chamber in the role of interim president. Board of Directors Chair Pat Keenan made the announcement today to the Board and Chamber members.
“The Board is grateful to Matt for stepping into this role during a very active and productive time for the Nebraska Chamber,” Keenan said. “He has steady leadership, strong relationships and trust from his many years of advocacy for economic development, and decades of experience working with the legislature and state government on tax policy and economic development incentives. Further, his experience leading state and national associations will help assure the good work of the state chamber continues as we look to hire a permanent President and Chief Executive Officer.”
Previous coverage: Nebraska Chamber President and CEO resigns after 9 months
A member of the Nebraska Legislature from 2015-2023 representing District 36, Williams has a lifelong career in banking, serving now as chairman of Flatwater Bank.
He also previously served as chair of the Nebraska Bankers Association and the American Bankers Association. His long involvement with the NE Chamber includes membership on the Board of Directors, currently serving as director for District 6. In 2025 he was named to the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame.
“The Nebraska Chamber is on rock-solid footing, with the clear vision of the Board, and talented and hard-working staff hitting its stride in legislative policy and advocacy, technology, manufacturing, leadership-development, fund-raising and membership,” Williams said. “The success of cutting-edge initiatives like 6 Regions, One Nebraska, the launch of the Go Big Future series, and the strong member engagement across the state demonstrate the success and strength of this organization. I’m excited to lend my support in whatever way I can for the Chamber. I know how strong businesses and communities make for a stronger Nebraska, and I’m glad to be part of that.”
The appointment will continue until a permanent President and CEO is identified, following the recent resignation of Todd Bingham.