Nearly two months in, Alison Paladino is settling into life as the Cabarrus Chamber's new leader

After years building relationships with local businesses, Paladino reflects on her journey and shares her vision for the Chamber's future.

Alison Paladino presenting the Ambassador of the Year Award to Cora Billingsley at the 2026 Annual Meeting. Photo courtesy of Alison Paladino.

As membership engagement director of the Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Commerce, Alison Paladino became one of the organization's most familiar faces, building strong relationships with businesses and business owners across the county.

So when longtime President and CEO Barbi Jones retired earlier this year, Paladino's promotion to lead the Chamber felt like a natural progression. After years building relationships with member businesses, she entered the position with a level of familiarity that few outside candidates could match.