Business leader Ossie Kendrix has been named president and CEO with the African American Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin (AACCW), the board of directors announced on April 18.

This appointment highlights the increasing importance of continuing to grow the organization and promoting the interests of local diverse businesses.

​“Ossie’s vision and passion for economic development, along with a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership, small business development and advocacy, make him an ideal leader to continue the work that has been started. We look forward to working in concert with his vision for the growth of the organization,” said Clifton Phelps, AACCW board chairman.
Kendrix, deputy state director with Senator Tammy Baldwin, begins his new role with AACCW on May 1st. He succeeds Dr. Eve Hall, who leads the Milwaukee Urban League.

“I am honored to join the AACCW,” said Kendrix. “The work of the chamber is critical to the community and I look forward to working with the board, membership, and staff to continue to promote greater unity and ensure the sustainability of local diverse businesses.”

As a minority small business champion of the U.S. Small Business Administration – Wisconsin District Office, Kendrix brings more than 15 years of experience working in government and nonprofit organizations. His educational and professional experiences in government allows Kendrix an unique opportunity to serve as a strong voice for the AACCW’s membership, advocating for legislation that promotes small business growth and policies that address the challenges faced by diverse business owners.

Prior to joining AACCW, Kendrix has had an impressive career in the public sector, serving as vice president with Feeding America of Eastern Wisconsin, manager with the City of Milwaukee’s Office of Small Business Development and program consultant with the Milwaukee Urban Entrepreneur Partnership.

A native of Milwaukee, Kendrix earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology and communication from University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee and a master’s degree in public administration from Drake University. He is a 2015 graduate of Cardinal Stritch University’s African American Leadership Program and was presented with an Award of Excellence from the Wisconsin Minority Supplier Diversity Council in 2012.