Natalie English is a proud North Carolina native who has spent her career creating opportunities for people and businesses across the state. As the President & CEO of the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce, Natalie brings over 35 years of experience advocating for businesses and shaping policies that make North Carolina a better place to work and live.
Her extensive experience spans monitoring legislative and regulatory issues at local, state, and federal levels, contributing to pivotal infrastructure investments crucial for economic development in the regions she has served. Natalie's policy influence and leadership have significantly shaped the ease and cost of doing business, enhanced quality of life, and strengthened workforce dynamics in the state of North Carolina.
During times of crisis such as Hurricane Florence and the COVID-19 pandemic, Natalie led the Chamber's efforts to connect members with critical resources, advocated for essential business designations, and collaborated with the Small Business Administration to secure local business support. Her leadership also drove an educational campaign exploring potential partnerships for NHRMC, ultimately resulting in a $1.2 billion community foundation with Novant Health that will impact New Hanover County and southeastern North Carolina for generations.
Natalie is also passionate about education at every stage, from early childhood to career readiness, and is especially focused on making sure local employers and educational institutions are working toward the same goals. Her ability to bring these groups together has helped create meaningful job opportunities and provided local businesses with the resources they need to grow.
Natalie holds a B.A. in Communications from North Carolina State University and is a Certified Chamber Executive. She’s been recognized as one of the 50 Most Influential Women in Charlotte by the Mecklenburg Times, a Woman to Watch by Wilma Magazine, and is regularly featured in the WilmingtonBiz 100 list as a Power Player and Top 100 Business Leader in our state by Business North Carolina.
Natalie stays actively involved in the community by serving on nonprofit boards and holding leadership roles with organizations such as the United Way of the Cape Fear, the Ports, Waterways & Beaches Commission, and the Tourism Development Authority among others.
In her free time, Natalie loves to spend time with her son, enjoys golfing with friends, indulging in travel, and pursuing her love for reading and writing.
