Funderburg will take over Jan. 1, 2027, as longtime CEO Brenda McCroskey prepares to retire after 26 years leading the organization.
SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. (Smokies.LIVE Information Center) — The Sevierville Chamber of Commerce has announced a leadership transition, naming longtime Director of Sales and Advertising Tony Funderburg as its next acting chief executive officer.
Funderburg will assume the role Jan. 1, 2027, succeeding Brenda McCroskey, who has served as the organization’s CEO since 2000.
McCroskey will remain with the Chamber through mid-March to help support the leadership transition before officially retiring.
Funderburg brings more than 30 years of experience in the tourism industry. His previous positions include director of sales and marketing for Oak Tenn Lodging Group, International Motor Coach Group and Group Connect/Charter Bus Connect.
He has served as the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce’s director of sales and advertising since 2016.
Funderburg also serves on the Tennessee Tourism Committee Research Group and is a current board member and former chairman of the Play TN Sports Association.
Chamber Board Chair Nikki Bounds said the board is united in its support of Funderburg, citing his understanding of the local business community and the importance of tourism to Sevierville.
Bounds also recognized McCroskey for her years of leadership and service to the organization.
Funderburg said he is honored to take on the position and thanked McCroskey for her leadership, mentorship and dedication.
He said he plans to build on the foundation established by McCroskey, Chamber staff and community partners, with a focus on innovation, strategic partnerships, supporting local businesses and strengthening tourism.
Founded in 1963, the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce promotes Sevierville and Sevier County through tourism development and business relationships aimed at supporting economic prosperity while preserving the area’s history and heritage.
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