Brandi Holt is the Economic Development and Tourism Director for the city of Huntsville. She collaborates with a commission of local business leaders to advise the city council on matters that affect the economic life of the community. Since the appointment to her position in 2020, the commission has worked with the city’s largest employers on expansion efforts, established a Bike/Pedestrian Plan, oversaw state funding and construction of a new county/city playground, and facilitated the city’s move to solar energy.
- What do you love most about Arkansas? I love the beauty of Arkansas and how it provides world-class outdoor experiences.
- Very few people know that I have lived in nine communities across the state.
- What song describes your life right now? “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger” by Daft Punk
- If you could pick up a new skill in an instant, what would it be? I wish I could learn to code instantly. It is like learning a new language.
- Who was a mentor to you early in your career and what did you learn from them? Nancy Marsh, my predecessor, emphasized the importance of creating partnerships between nonprofits, government, civic groups, and business leaders to better our community.
- My first job was… a waitress at Waffle House
- The greatest risk I ever took was…? The greatest risk I thought I ever took was the decision to become a stay-at-home mom. I was nervous and uncertain what or if career opportunities would present themselves later. Looking back, I appreciate the break from the traditional career path and how it opened new possibilities I never expected.
- Thinking about your community, what is the one thing of which you are most proud? I am most proud of our community’s completion of our first series of multipurpose trails. This accomplishment demonstrated how we can work together to create a terrific new amenity.
- How long have you been in the chamber/economic development profession? What do you like most about your job? Since February 2020, I enjoy connecting people to our community and sharing our potential for growth.
- What is the best career advice you would give someone in the chamber/economic development profession? Never be afraid to admit what you don’t know, and don’t hesitate to ask for advice.
