There’s been a change in leadership at the Bradford Area Chamber of Commerce.

Kara Kennedy, who had served as executive director for several years, is no longer with the chamber.

In a statement released Tuesday, chamber board president Anita Dolan made no mention of Kennedy at all. When asked by The Era, Dolan confirmed, but did not elaborate on Kennedy’s departure. She said only this: “We wish her all the best for the future.”

Dolan said Shane Oschman has been hired as a consultant on an interim basis while the chamber board seeks to hire an executive director.

For her part, Kennedy said she is proud of the role she played in the growth of the chamber during her tenure with the agency.

“Nearly ten years have passed since I joined the chamber, first as the event coordinator, and then for almost four years as the executive director,” Kennedy said. “In that time, the chamber’s membership, events, publications, and services have grown and changed in many ways, and I am proud of the role I played in that development, along with the various collaborations I have been a part of throughout the community.”

She continued, “My personal beliefs and values have not changed: I celebrate the unique character of our area, appreciate the range of experiences I’ve had, and thank all of the chamber’s members — past and present — for their commitment to and investment in the local business community. Members are the most important part of all that the chamber has accomplished, and I wish each of them and their businesses continued success.”

The chamber’s statement explained that Oschman, a past president of the board of directors for the chamber, has been extensively involved in the Bradford community. He is a past president of the Bradford Creative and Performing Arts Center and currently is a director for the Bradford Area School Board.

In a statement released by Oschman, he said, “The chamber board shows a commitment to its members and this community that I greatly appreciate. I am pleased that they have asked me to join them during this interim period.”

He continued, “I am not the long-term solution for the chamber but someone out there is. I’m hoping that my consultation and skill set will help to continue the day-to-day operations of the chamber while developing a process that will lead to the continued success of the Bradford business community. This, however, cannot be done by just me or the board. It will be the amazing members of the chamber and the successful businesses in Bradford that have yet to join, that will ultimately navigate the progression of this great community for generations to come.”

Dolan said the chamber is excited to have Oschman’s help.

“Shane’s experience and passion for the community, and his experience with the function and leadership of the chamber is a significant asset as we go through a time of transition and evaluation regarding how the Chamber can best serve the needs of the area’s business community.”

She continued, “Shane will provide the leadership that is needed to help make this a smooth process.”

Oschman assumes his responsibilities this week and can be reached at the chamber office located at 121 Main St., Bradford.