Sacramento Metro Chamber President and CEO Robert Heidt is celebrating a milestone of 25 years in the chamber industry this month, according to a March 24 announcement. Heidt joined the Sacramento Metro Chamber in January 2024 after holding leadership roles at chambers across the country.
Heidt’s career began with service in the U.S. Air Force and casino marketing positions in Las Vegas before he entered the chamber field as Director of Member Services and Community Relations for the Las Vegas Chamber in March 2001. He went on to serve as Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President at the Austin Chamber, then as President and CEO of both Cape Ann Chamber (Massachusetts) and Glendale Chamber (Arizona), before moving to Sacramento.
Heidt was selected for his current role based on his experience enhancing organizational culture, building community relationships, developing membership services, and creating momentum within organizations. Since joining Sacramento Metro Chamber, he has overseen several key initiatives including support for Proposition 36—passed in December 2024—to address retail theft affecting local businesses. He also led efforts for the acquisition of the Sacramento Speakers Series by the Sacramento Metro Chamber Foundation in September 2025.
Membership at Sacramento Metro Chamber has more than doubled under his leadership over two years, now approaching nearly 2,000 members. Darrell Teat, At Large Executive Committee Member who helped lead the search for a new CEO in late 2023, said: “Robert was selected to lead the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce because he is an undeniably effective leader and a respected Chamber industry expert. He brings a collaborative, relationship-centric approach to business and is committed to supporting the advancement of businesses of all sizes across the Greater Sacramento Region. His focus on adding value to the ecosystem that supports our business community, paired with a clear vision for strengthening opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses, positions our region to not just survive, but thrive.”
Dave Roughton served as Interim CEO prior to Heidt’s appointment. Roughton said: “From the very beginning, it was clear Robert’s greatest strength was his ability to build meaningful and productive relationships. On day one, he demonstrated a natural talent for connecting with people – whether colleagues, members or partners – in a way that was both genuine and strategic. He listens actively, understands what others value, and creates an atmosphere of trust that makes people want to collaborate with him.”
