A Legacy of Leadership

John Tayer and the Boulder Chamber at 120 Years

By Grace Adele Boyle

For more than a decade, John Tayer has led the Boulder Chamber of Commerce (Boulder Chamber) with one goal in mind: ensuring that Boulder remains a place where businesses and diverse communities thrive. As the Boulder Chamber celebrates its 120th anniversary this year, Tayer reflects on his journey, the evolution of the Chamber and Boulder’s future.

After studying political science and public affairs, Tayer worked in D.C. before moving to Boulder. “Day two on the ground in Boulder, I said, ‘That’s it—I’m not leaving,’” Tayer recalls. His early work in Boulder included a role in the city manager’s office, where he focused on public affairs and became familiar with the Boulder Chamber’s impact. He later joined Roche Colorado, managing community relations and deepening his connection to the city’s economic landscape. After serving on the Boulder Chamber’s board, he became president and CEO in 2012. “The Boulder Chamber has been the most impactful civic association in the community,” Tayer says. “It’s an honor to steward its legacy and future.”

When Tayer started, Boulder was emerging from the Great Recession, attracting new technology, biotechnology and aerospace businesses. But with success came new challenges. “If you’re not careful, you suffer the impacts of that success,” Tayer explains, referencing economist Richard Florida’s theory on how thriving creative hubs often price out the very creative class entrepreneurs that made them vibrant in the first place.

Under Tayer’s leadership, the Boulder Chamber has adapted through environmental and social crises, including the 2013 floods, the 2021 Marshall Fire and King Soopers shooting, and the COVID-19 pandemic. “Our focus during the beginning of COVID was keeping people safe, keeping essential businesses operating and then helping our economy get back on its feet.”

One of the lasting changes has been the shift toward remote work, which has profoundly impacted Boulder’s economic landscape. “Many of our commercial buildings are struggling with low tenancy,” Tayer notes. “That affects restaurants, retailers and services that depend on a steady workforce presence.”

Since its founding in 1905, the Boulder Chamber has been instrumental in shaping the city’s economy. Early initiatives included funding the Hotel Boulderado, recruiting Boulder’s first federal laboratory and advocating for the construction of U.S. 36. These projects helped make Boulder the destination city for tourism, business and quality of life it is today.

Tayer sees the future as a balancing act—ensuring economic evolution without losing what makes Boulder unique. “We are investing in more affordable housing, better regional transportation connections and workforce development while also addressing other identified community concerns, such as homelessness and office vacancies,” Tayer says.

The Boulder Chamber’s 120th anniversary will be marked with leadership awards, a historical exhibit at the Museum of Boulder and themed events celebrating the organization’s legacy. “It’s a recognition that a strong economy is essential to preserving the Boulder we love.”

Residents and business owners can get involved by attending Boulder Chamber events, participating in advocacy efforts and supporting local economic initiatives. “The Boulder Chamber is here for everyone,” Tayer says. “Whether you’re a business owner or a community member, your involvement helps shape Boulder’s future.”

One common misconception is that the Boulder Chamber is government funded. “We’re an independent nonprofit,” Tayer clarifies. “We rely on membership investments and sponsorships from businesses that recognize that a thriving chamber means a thriving economy.”

The Boulder Chamber has expanded its reach recently, incorporating Commercial Brokers of Boulder, the Boulder Transportation Connections program and the Boulder Film Commission. “We don’t just support for-profit businesses,” Tayer adds. “Nonprofits are businesses too, and we make sure they have the resources to thrive.”

Beyond his professional role, Tayer is a deeply committed member of the Boulder community. A 35-year resident, he lives in South Boulder with his wife, Molly, who works in affordable housing. “We’d like to think we embody the spirit and quirky character of this town,” he says with a smile.

Outside work, Tayer is an avid disc golfer and a devoted follower of the Grateful Dead and other jam bands. He’s also served in public office as Boulder’s representative to the Regional Transportation District (RTD). “I ran the best kind of election—unopposed,” he jokes.

As Tayer looks to the future, he remains committed to fostering economic vitality while preserving what makes Boulder unique. “The work we do today will shape the Boulder of tomorrow,” he says. “We want to ensure that businesses, entrepreneurs and all residents can continue to thrive in this incredible place.”

With the Boulder Chamber commemorating 120 years, the organization is paying tribute to its past and laying the groundwork for the next chapter. “We’re honoring our history while looking forward,” Tayer says. “There’s so much more to do.”