After a six-month vacancy, the Southwest Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce tapped longtime board member and former chair Terre Albert to step in as president, beginning Nov. 10, as previously reported.
A closer look
A 14-year chamber veteran who has helped guide the organization through multiple name changes and three stints as board chair—including most recently in 2024—Albert said he’s focused on bringing stability as rapid growth continues along FM 1488 and into new master-planned communities.
In a Q&A with Community Impact, he shares what drew him to the role, his first-year priorities around member outreach and retention, and how the chamber plans to strengthen its visibility through new committees and expanded support for local businesses.
What drew you to this role, and what excites you most about leading the Southwest Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce at this moment?
Most people know my history with the chamber; I’ve been involved for over 15 years, whether as a board member or chair. I’ve watched the chamber evolve from the Magnolia Chamber of Commerce to the [Greater] Magnolia Parkway Chamber of Commerce, and now to the Southwest Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, all driven by the tremendous growth in our area. What excites me most is being able to take those past experiences, events and roles and use them to provide a strong foundation and stability as we move forward into the next phase of growth.
What are your top priorities for the chamber in your first year as president?
My priorities include strengthening member value, increasing engagement and ensuring the chamber is a trusted connector and advocate for the business community. This means delivering meaningful networking opportunities, clear communication and programming that reflects the real needs of our members while building strong relationships with community partners and local leaders.
How do you see the chamber supporting small and mid-sized businesses as growth continues across the area?
My background includes more than 20 years in event management, theme park management and running a small business, which gives me a deep understanding of what businesses experience. Marketing and visibility are critical, especially for small businesses. The chamber can support them through platforms like digital marketing, podcasts, storytelling and by serving as a connector, helping businesses explain who they are, what they do and who they serve so they can thrive.
What role do you think the chamber should play in conversations around development, workforce needs and local government?
The chamber serves as a neutral bridge between local government and the business community. Through our Government Affairs Committee, which meets monthly, we provide a platform for information sharing related to infrastructure, legislation, bond issues and community services. While the chamber does not take political positions, we ensure businesses have the information they need to prepare and adapt.
How would you like the business community to describe the chamber by the time your first year as president wraps up?
I hope the business community describes the chamber as approachable, relevant and impactful, a true partner in growth. If members feel the chamber helped them make meaningful connections, navigate challenges and seize opportunities, then we’ve succeeded.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
The chamber’s success is not driven by the president alone. It relies heavily on dedicated volunteers and one of the strongest staff and boards I’ve seen in my 15 years of chamber involvement. These individuals give their time selflessly to help businesses and the community grow. As Southwest Montgomery County and the Greater Magnolia area continue to develop as one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, the chamber is proud to help guide and support the businesses and communities forming here. In addition, we are currently working to revise the chamber’s strategic plan for the next five years. Our last strategic plan was created in 2021 and included more than 28 areas of focus, nearly all of which have been completed. As we look ahead, we will be surveying our members in the coming months to identify their top three priorities. That feedback will guide the rebuilding of a focused, member-driven strategic plan that positions the chamber for continued success in the future.
