John-Mark Freeman selected for Alabama Chamber's Chamber Champion

Childersburg Area Chamber's President & CEO selected for State award.

John-Mark Freeman, President/CEO of the Childersburg Area Chamber of Commerce, has been selected as the 2026 Chamber Champion, a statewide honor recognizing emerging leaders who demonstrate exceptional impact, professionalism, and commitment to advancing the chamber industry.

The award highlights professionals with five or fewer years in the chamber field who are already producing measurable results and strengthening their communities through leadership and service. Since taking the helm four years ago, Freeman has led a transformation of the Chamber marked by significant growth and regional influence. Under his leadership, the organization has achieved revenue growth, built financial reserves, expanded staff capacity, and doubled attendance at major events. His work has helped position the Chamber as a central convener for business, government, and community collaboration across Talladega County.

Freeman has also spearheaded first-of-their-kind regional initiatives, including the Talladega County Elected Officials Meeting, Mayors' Breakfast, and Industrial Advisory Alliance-efforts that have strengthened partnerships and aligned leaders around shared economic priorities.

In addition to organizational growth, Freeman has focused on long-term community impact through initiatives like a citywide rebrand, the launch of a Young Professionals program, and early planning for a new Chamber headquarters.

Most recently, Freeman helped lead the "Forward Together" initiative, a rapid-response effort following the announcement of a major employer closure in the region. In partnership with local and regional stakeholders, the initiative mobilized resources, coordinated hiring events, and connected displaced workers with new opportunities-demonstrating the Chamber's role as both a leader and a lifeline during times of uncertainty.

Beyond his professional role, Freeman remains deeply engaged in the community, serving as President of the local Kiwanis Club and as a board member for Parks & Recreation and the Historic Commission. He is also actively investing in professional development through programs such as the Institute for Organization Management (IOM) and GEDI. "This recognition reflects the work of an entire community," said Freeman. "Our Chamber is committed to building momentum—not just for today, but for the future-and I'm grateful to be part of a region that believes in moving forward together."



The Chamber Champion award underscores Freeman's impact in moving the organization from maintenance to momentum-strengthening its foundation while expanding its reach and influence across the region.