Indy Chamber names Develop Indy leader

INDIANAPOLIS (Inside INdiana Business) — The Indy Chamber has named Portia Bailey-Bernard as its new vice president of Indianapolis economic development, putting her in position to lead Develop Indy. Bailey-Bernard takes over for former top executive Ian Nicolini, who has moved into a new chamber role as chief operating officer.

Bailey-Bernard will oversee business attraction, retention and expansion for the chamber after most recently serving as an associate attorney for Kroger, Gardis & Regas, where she worked in economic development. She also previously worked for the city of Fishers as a project manager for redevelopment projects. 

“Portia was our ‘dream candidate’ to lead Develop Indy, with her legal and finance background, experience working with local governments and redevelopment commissions, and overall leadership experience. We are thrilled to have her join our team,” said Indy Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Huber.

Bailey-Bernard began her new duties on November 2. Nicolini served four years in the role and will now focus on the chamber’s strategic alignment, development culture and other initiatives as COO.