Brandon, Zach

Zach Brandon is widely recognized for delivering dramatic results in the areas of economic and workforce development. His entrepreneurial acumen, community knowledge and depth of experience in the public and private sectors are second only to his passion for making Greater Madison a goal, not just a name. With these unique qualifications, Zach began leading the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce in November 2012.

Prior to the Chamber, Zach was the director of the Wisconsin Angel Network, an early stage investment organization focused on increasing equity investments in Wisconsin’s entrepreneurs. Zach also served as the vice chair of public policy for the national Angel Capital Association.

Previously, Zach served as Deputy Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Commerce. Zach advised the Governor, Commerce Secretary and the Legislature on global trade and business development strategies with a heavy emphasis on investment and entrepreneurial development. Zach worked with stakeholders to enhance the state’s investor tax credit program, and created innovative and nationally recognized economic development, job creation and green technology initiatives.

An entrepreneur himself, Zach was part of the leadership team of three startups. He was president and chief executive officer of Laundry 101, which in 2003 topped USA Today’s “Best Places” to do laundry. He secured $1.84 million in angel financing for his companies, which grew to nearly 20 employees.

Zach currently serves on the Capital Area Regional Planning Commission. Zach was elected to the City of Madison Common Council in 2003 and re-elected in 2005 and 2007. Zach helped revitalize and empower the Economic Development Committee and authored the legislation to create the Department of Economic Development.

Zach earned a B.A. in Political Science with a concentration in Management from Kent State University.

Zach and his wife, Cori, spend much of their free time traveling with their children for youth sports. Son Hunter is a varsity soccer player at James Madison Memorial High School and plays for Wisconsin Rush. Son Holden trap-shoots at the Oregon Sportsman’s Club, and daughter Hailee, plays ice hockey for the Ice Spirits. Zach enjoys snowshoeing, recently started playing racquetball and is contemplating taking up tai chi.