Palm Bay, FL – September 26, 2025 – The Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce, a cornerstone of economic development and business advocacy for Florida’s Space Coast, today announced the appointment of Cory Skeates as its new President & CEO. Selected by the Executive Board of Directors after a rigorous national search, Skeates brings decades of proven leadership and a profound commitment to chamber excellence, positioning the organization for continued growth and impact.
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With a career spanning more than 20 years in chamber operations and public policy, Skeates is a respected figure in Florida’s business community.
As Vice President of Community Development at Accelerate Brevard, Skeates provided leadership over Government Affairs, Military Affairs, Tourism (Visit Cocoa Beach), and Space initiatives. During this time, he was also selected as Chair-Elect of the Institute of Organization Management (IOM) Southeast, which is the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. He is slated to assume the role of Chair in 2027. In addition, he was reappointed to the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals Board of Directors in 2024 and named an officer, serving as Chair of the Advocacy Committee.
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Skeates previously served as President & CEO of the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce from 2015 to 2021, where he spearheaded initiatives that enhanced economic development, expanded membership, and supporting local businesses through the challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his leadership, the chamber launched successful programs that brought business together, driving increased collaboration between local small businesses and regional partners.
Prior to Lakeland, Skeates led the Oviedo-Winter Springs Regional Chamber of Commerce from 2007 to 2014, growing membership from 250 to over 600 while revitalizing community events and securing funding for a new headquarters. His early career included roles as a Senior Legislative Assistant to multiple Florida State Representatives, where he honed his expertise in government relations and advocacy—skills that will amplify the Greater Palm Bay Chamber’s voice in shaping policies for the Space Coast’s dynamic economy.
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“Cory Skeates embodies the vision and experience needed to continue propelling our chamber forward,” said Chari Rigby, Chairwoman of the Greater Palm Bay Chamber’s Board of Directors. “His deep-rooted history in chamber leadership, combined with his
passion for connecting businesses and communities, makes him the ideal leader to continue building on our legacy of serving Brevard’s business community. We are excited to welcome him to our team and to the vibrant Greater Palm Bay community.”
Skeates assumes his position effective October 20, 2025, succeeding Nancy Peltonen, who has led the chamber since 2015. The transition ensures seamless continuity for the organization’s proven programs, including networking events, professional development, and advocacy efforts that support businesses in aerospace, technology, and beyond.
According to incoming Chairman of the Board Sean Williams, filling President and CEO Nancy Peltonen’s shoes was not easy. According to the Orlando Business Journal, the Greater Palm Bay Chamber is the fastest growing chamber based on revenue growth for all Central Florida.
“Nancy has grown the Greater Palm Bay Chamber in ways we never thought possible, elevating our membership, programs, and creating nationally recognized events,” said Williams. “With his deep chamber expertise and visionary leadership, Cory is the perfect choice to carry forward her remarkable legacy and lead us into an exciting new chapter.”
Skeates, a Central Florida resident with a B.A. in Political Science from Grove City College and a J.D. from Barry University School of Law, expressed enthusiasm for his new role. “The Greater Palm Bay Chamber has long been a trusted advocate for innovation and growth in one of Florida’s most promising regions,” said Skeates. “I’m honored to join this dedicated team and board to champion our members— from home-based entrepreneurs to major corporations—as we drive economic vitality, foster strategic partnerships, and promote the Space Coast’s unparalleled opportunities.”
“I believe Cory is the perfect choice to continue the chamber’s upward trajectory of growth and foster the business collaborations necessary for success throughout Central Florida,” said outgoing President Nancy Peltonen. “I have known Cory for over five years and worked with him on the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals and I’m confident in his ability to take the chamber to the next level.”
For more information, contact the Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce at (321) 951- 9998 or visit greaterpalmbaychamber.com.
