Melissa Taylor hired as new Gonzales Chamber executive director

The Gonzales Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture will have a new executive director on board starting Jan. 23, Chamber Vice President Lawren Kridler announced to members Friday, Jan. 10.

Melissa Taylor, who has been the creative director at the Seguin Gazette, is expected to bring “a wealth of experience in marketing and communications and community engagement, paired with a deep connection to Gonzales,” Kridler said.

“Her extensive professional background includes experience in project management, budget planning, analytics, and leadership — serving as the Creative Director for the Seguin Gazette, spearheading creative initiatives at the Frank Erwin Center and contributing to Texas State University’s marketing campaigns. Her passion for community is evident through her volunteer work, both within and outside of Gonzales as well,” Kridler added.

Taylor joins a staff that includes operations coordinator Misti King, tourism coordinator for Bicentennial and heritage Molly Manning and tourism coordinator for events and agritourism Lexie Kridler.

“With (Taylor’s) leadership and the vital, invaluable contributions of our current staff, we’re eager to build on the Chamber’s recent momentum in strengthening partnerships and working alongside community and City organizations as we serve our members, fellow citizens, and visitors in our great Gonzales,” Lawren Kridler added.

Chamber officials expressed their “heartfelt gratitude” for the hard work of Gonzales Economic Development Corporation executive director Susan Sankey, who stepped into the role of interim executive director for the last half of 2024.

“Susan’s leadership and remarkable work in creating better efficiencies, improving organizational practices, and strengthening relationships across community entities have been instrumental moving toward a more structured ‘Gonzales First’ alignment. Her focus on bridging communication and coordinating common goals has laid a solid foundation for continued progress,” Lawren Kridler said.

“As we begin this new year, we are excited about the continued collaboration between the Chamber, City, and other key organizations that will be pivotal to achieving unified objectives that enhance the quality of life for our residents and foster growth for our businesses.”