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The South Carolina Chamber of Commerce announced President and CEO Mike Brenan has retired, effective Oct. 30, 2025, following 16 months of leadership that guided the organization through a period of transition and into a new era of growth and prosperity.
Upon his retirement, Brenan was bestowed the title of Chair Emeritus.
Brenan, who came out of retirement and stepped into the role during a transitional time for the SC Chamber, is credited with stabilizing the organization and positioning it for long-term success as a new entity.
He spent decades in South Carolina’s banking industry before retiring in 2023 as the regional president for the South Carolina Region of Truist Bank.
Officials said his steady leadership, collaborative approach, and commitment to South Carolina’s business community have helped the SC Chamber strengthen its advocacy efforts, membership engagement, and statewide partnerships during his tenure.
“Mike’s impact on the SC Chamber has been significant,” said Thomas Rhodes, chair of the SC Chamber Board of Directors. “He brought calm, clarity, and confidence when the organization needed it most, and his leadership has left the SC Chamber stronger and ready to move forward into its next era as South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce (SCMC) through the upcoming merger with the South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance."
With Brenan's departure, Rhodes has taken on the role of acting president and CEO until the effective date of the merger, Jan. 1, 2026, when SCMA President and CEO Sara Hazzard will take the helm of the new organization.
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