North Little Rock Chamber announces new president & CEO

The North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce hired John Owens as its new president & CEO. Owens will begin work in his new position on Feb. 22. He replaces Terry Hartwick who left the post last year.

Owen now works as the President of Hortus Ltd., P. Allen Smith Companies. In his new chamber role, he will be responsible for day-to-day operations of the business including finance, marketing, sales, tours and events, annual budgeting, strategic planning, and a hosts of other activities.

Owens, a North Little Rock native, has served as president, vice-chairman, and co-founder of CROSSMARK, a sales and marketing services company for consumer-branded suppliers and retailers. He also served as CEO for ZOOTS Inc. and Sun & Earth before his role with Hortus, Ltd. and P. Allen Smith Companies.

“John has the experience and skill set to help the chamber continue its leadership position developed in the last 15 years,” said Toby Burkett, 2016 chairman of the Board.

“I am delighted to have the opportunity to serve as President/CEO of the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce. I believe successful businesses build stronger communities and I look forward to working with the Chamber’s Board of Directors and local business leaders to achieve the goals of the Chamber,” said Owens.