The Chamber Announces Christopher Franklin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Essential Utilities, as Board Chair-Elect

Franklin is first CEO of a suburban-based company to chair Chamber board in over 20 years

PHILADELPHIA, PA - The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia (the Chamber) is pleased to announce that Christopher Franklin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Essential Utilities, has been named Chair-Elect and will begin his term as the next Chair of the Board of Directors in October 2025. Franklin will succeed Gregory E. Deavens, President and CEO of Independence Health Group, who will remain in this role until his term expires.

With its appointment of Franklin to Chair the board for 2026, the Chamber is signaling its recognition that cooperation is critical to achieve regional priorities, including adequate funding for SEPTA, and to position Greater Philadelphia as a successful host of the Major League Baseball All-Star game, FIFA World Cup 26 Philadelphia, the 2026 PGA Championship and America's 250^th anniversary.

Franklin, who has a track record as a strong regional business leader, has made significant contributions to the Chamber's mission since his appointment to the Board of Directors in 2017. He also served on the Chamber's Executive Committee since 2019, as Chair of the CEO Council for Growth, and has served on the Board's Governance and Nominating Committee, Public Policy Committee, and Audit Committee.

Franklin will address the business community as Chair for the first time at the Chamber's Annual Meeting on Friday, October 10, 2025, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

"This is an exciting time for the Philadelphia region, and it deserves to shine in the national spotlight. As a lifelong resident and longtime leader in our regional business community, I understand the critical interdependency that exists between the city and suburbs. We believe the Chamber can play an important convening and advocacy role as we address the important challenges before us. I look forward to working with the many dedicated leaders in business, civic and government roles as we work to further our goals of inclusive job growth and increased economic mobility for all," Franklin said. "I love this region and look forward to exploring its vast opportunities - based in regional cooperation."

Franklin has served as Chairman and CEO of Bryn Mawr-based Essential Utilities (formerly Aqua America) since 2015, leading the $4.2 billion acquisition of Pittsburgh-based Peoples Natural Gas to form Essential Utilities in 2020. A firm believer that reliable infrastructure is the basic building block of strong economic development and a strong business community. Franklin has championed Essential's commitment to inclusive leadership and corporate citizenship through philanthropic giving, volunteerism and partnerships that support education, environmental stewardship and community well-being across the company's service areas.

"Chris Franklin is an accomplished leader and an ideal choice to serve as the next Chair of the Chamber. I look forward to collaborating with Chris to ensure a seamless transition," said Deavens. "It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as Chair of the Chamber. In the months ahead, we will continue to focus on driving regional job and business growth, pursuing increased economic mobility across the Greater Philadelphia region, and preparing to welcome visitors from around the country and the world as Philadelphia hosts the major events of 2026."

Franklin was named one of the Philadelphia Business Journal's Most Admired CEOs, was recognized by Ernst & Young (EY) with the "Entrepreneur of the Year" award for his innovative vision and many years of successful leadership in the utility industry, and earned a top 10 position on City & State Pennsylvania's 2023 "Energy and Environment Power 100" list.

Franklin's commitment to the community is embodied in his history of involvement with many of the region's key institutions. In addition to the Chamber board, he has served on the board of the Franklin Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Walnut Street Theater, Magee Hospital, West Chester University and Independence Health Group.

"I am honored to welcome Chris as the Chair-Elect of the Chamber Board of Directors. As an exceptional leader with deep ties to the city and region, Chris is uniquely positioned to steer the Chamber as we prepare to welcome the world in 2026 and continue our mission to position Greater Philadelphia as a top global destination for business and a leader in inclusive growth," said Chellie Cameron, President and CEO of the Chamber.

Learn more about our Board here.

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About the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia

The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia works together with members, investors, and stakeholders, to realize our bold vision: Greater Philadelphia is a top global destination for business and a leader in inclusive growth. As the metro-regional chamber of commerce serving the 11-county, tri-state Greater Philadelphia region, we are the premier organization to convene and connect business, government and civic leaders to drive economic growth and prosperity for all.

Media Contact:

Shannon McLaughlin, smclaughlin@chamberphl.com,
The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia