The Chamber is excited to welcome Mel Carter and Jacob Gamble to the Business Advocacy team. Together, they expand the Chamber’s capacity to engage with local governments, track policy issues and advocate for the needs of businesses across the region.

Mel and Jacob share a common mission: supporting the Chamber’s policy priorities while building strong, productive relationships with elected officials, government partners and members. While they work collaboratively, each will focus on a specific part of the region to ensure the Chamber stays closely connected to the unique challenges and opportunities shaping each community.

Jacob Gamble, Business Advocacy Manager, Region & Policy, will focus on Charleston County and its municipalities. A Summerville native who has returned to the Lowcountry after spending time is Washington, D.C. as Director of Press Advance in the White House, Jacob brings experience across government, campaigns and the private sector. His work will include monitoring legislation, supporting the Chamber’s advocacy efforts and helping ensure business voices are represented in local policy discussions. Jacob is particularly motivated by the region’s continued growth and the role thoughtful policy decisions play in shaping the region’s future.

Mel Carter, Business Advocacy Manager, State & Local, will oversee advocacy efforts in Berkeley and Dorchester counties, along with coordination on state-level issues. Mel previously served as Director of Policy & Public Affairs at Georgia Life Sciences, where she developed public policy strategies and worked directly with government leaders on behalf of a membership-based organization. Now based in Mount Pleasant, Mel is eager to serve as a bridge between the business community and decision-makers, helping translate business priorities into effective advocacy.

“Bringing Mel and Jacob onto our team significantly expands our ability to partner with local governments and stay closely connected to the issues impacting our business community,” said Scott Barhight, Senior Vice President of Business Advocacy. “This investment reflects the Chamber’s commitment to working collaboratively with elected officials and public sector partners across the region to help foster a thriving business environment in Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties.”

With Mel and Jacob on board, the Chamber’s Business Advocacy team is better positioned to engage at the local level, respond to emerging issues and support policies that help businesses and communities succeed.

If you’d like to connect with Mel or Jacob, you can reach them at mcarter@charlestonchamber.org and jgamble@charlestonchamber.org or say hello at an upcoming Chamber event.