Monroe Chamber of Commerce Announces Appointment of Mike Downhour as New CEO Effective January 1

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DECEMBER 31, 2025
Monroe Chamber of Commerce Announces Appointment of Mike Downhour as New CEO Effective January 1, 2026
Monroe, La. – After nearly five years of service, Roy Heatherly, President and CEO of the Monroe Chamber of Commerce, will retire at the end of this year. The Chamber’s Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Mike Downhour will assume the role of President and CEO effective January 1, 2026.
Heatherly returned home to Northeast Louisiana in 2021 to lead the Chamber and has played a key role in strengthening membership, expanding outreach, and celebrating the region’s growth and opportunities. Under his leadership, Chamber membership has grown to more than 1,120, events and programming have flourished, and initiatives such as Leaders of Change, the Sterlington and Richwood alliances, and the addition of Monroe Merch have expanded the Chamber’s footprint and impact across the community.
“It has been the greatest professional opportunity of my life to return home, work alongside friends old and new, and play a small part in the transformation happening in our region,” Heatherly said. “Our Chamber is strong, our team is the best, and our community is filled with passion, love, and collaboration. I am excited to continue cheering on Monroe and Northeast Louisiana as we move into an even brighter future.”
Following Heatherly’s retirement announcement, the Monroe Chamber Board of Directors launched a comprehensive search for the organization’s next leader. The Search Committee received more than 30 applications and, through a series of meetings and a diligent review process of highly qualified candidates, identified Downhour as the individual best suited to continue the momentum established under Heatherly’s leadership while moving the Chamber to the next level.
The Chamber’s Board of Directors extends its sincere appreciation to the Search Committee for its leadership, dedication, and thoughtful approach throughout the process, as well as their guidance and support during this important transition.
Downhour currently serves as Director of Community Engagement for the Monroe Chamber of Commerce and as President of the Sterlington and Richwood Business Alliances, where he leads initiatives that strengthen the business community, foster collaboration, and promote economic growth across Northeast Louisiana. With a career rooted in leadership and relationship-building, he is passionate about creating partnerships that support business success, workforce development, and long-term regional prosperity.
“I am honored and excited to accept the opportunity to serve as President and CEO of the Monroe Chamber of Commerce,” Downhour said. “We have a strong foundation thanks to Roy’s leadership, and I look forward to building upon that success by focusing on growing and supporting our membership, strengthening regional alliances and partnerships, and ensuring the Chamber’s long-term financial sustainability. By doing so, we can continue to expand our services and meet the evolving needs of our businesses so they can thrive.”
A graduate of the University of Louisiana Monroe, Downhour brings a strong background in communications and leadership to his role. His long career in broadcast management focused on celebrating the community and championing all things local. Prior to joining the Monroe Chamber, he served as Market President for a multi-city radio group in Louisiana, gaining extensive experience in strategic messaging, marketing, community engagement, and connecting organizations with their audiences. He recently completed his 36th—and final—season as the voice of the Ouachita Lions football team, concluding that chapter as a state champion.
Aimee Kane, Chairwoman of the Monroe Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, praised Heatherly’s tenure and expressed confidence in the Chamber’s future:
“Roy has been a tireless advocate for our members and our community. His leadership, optimism, and deep love for Monroe have left a lasting mark on the Chamber and our region. We are stronger today because of his vision and his ability to bring people together. We are equally excited to welcome Mike and confident he will build upon this strong foundation.”
Matt Dickerson, incoming 2026 Chairman of the Monroe Chamber Board of Directors, added:
“I am excited to work alongside Mike as we move into this next chapter for the Monroe Chamber,” Dickerson said. “He understands the value of strong relationships, strategic partnerships, and financial sustainability. Together with our Board and staff, we are committed to strengthening the Chamber, expanding its impact, and ensuring it continues to serve as a driving force for our businesses and our region.”
Heatherly expressed his gratitude to the Chamber team, past and present Chairs, and community leaders who have partnered in the Chamber’s success. While retiring from his professional role, he noted he will remain active in the community, enjoying more time with family and friends while continuing to support the Chamber’s mission.
“The best part of my story is this community,” Heatherly said. “I will always be proud to call Monroe home and to be part of this incredible journey.”
Downhour is married to his wife, Sheila Kay, and together they have three grown children. He remains deeply committed to community involvement and to the continued growth and success of Northeast Louisiana.
About the Monroe Chamber of Commerce
The Monroe Chamber of Commerce is committed to promoting economic growth by supporting local businesses and enhancing the quality of life across Northeast Louisiana. With more than 1,100 members, the Chamber serves as a unifying force for the region’s business community, encouraging collaboration, leadership, and opportunity while staying true to its mission of helping local businesses thrive.