Today we’d like to introduce you to Paula Shiver.
Hi Paula, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in Dunwoody, and my wonderful parents still live in the same home they moved me to when I was 18 months old. My career began in the outdoor industry with REI, where I worked during college. I loved the company’s values—and the people who shared them—so much that I built a career in this field, managing retail operations across the country.
In the late ’90s, I took a hiatus from REI to work for Patagonia, another company whose values deeply resonate with me. Between the two, I lived in New York, Maine, California, and Tennessee.
When my husband, Chris, and I got married, we moved from Nashville back to Atlanta to be closer to our families. We settled in Chamblee, welcomed our daughter Ella in 2004, and eventually moved back to Dunwoody in 2011—just two houses away from my parents.
In 2014, I took a part-time position with the Dunwoody Chamber of Commerce. I loved working in my hometown and applying the values of service and stewardship I learned in the outdoor industry. That part-time role grew into a full-time passion and career I truly love.
A highlight of my journey has been helping unite the Dunwoody (Perimeter) Chamber and the Sandy Springs Perimeter Chamber to form the Greater Perimeter Chamber—so we can better serve businesses across the entire region. We accomplished this in January 2025, and it’s been a wonderful success story.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I would say it’s been a relatively smooth road. I was fortunate to grow up surrounded by a loving and supportive family, and that foundation has carried me through every stage of life. The years I lived away from home were some of the most formative—filled with growth, independence, and self-discovery—but I always felt a pull to return closer to family.
Of course, there were hurdles along the way, but those bumps in the road are what shape us. I wouldn’t turn back time to smooth them out—they taught me resilience, perspective, and gratitude for the life I have today.
As you know, we’re big fans of Greater Perimeter Chamber. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At the Greater Perimeter Chamber, our purpose is simple: to help businesses thrive and our community prosper. From local entrepreneurs to Fortune 500 companies, we bring people and ideas together to build a stronger future for everyone.
Our mission is clear — to advance regional economic prosperity. We believe that when businesses succeed, communities flourish. Every day, we work to connect, advocate, and create opportunities that support growth across the Greater Perimeter region and beyond.
Looking Ahead
As we enter a new chapter with a unified vision, guided by our Board of Directors, we’re focused on the issues that matter most to the business community — workforce development, transportation, housing, education, and inclusive growth. Over the next five years, we’ll be setting bold goals that reflect both the needs of our members and the opportunities ahead for our region. Together, we’re strengthening the foundation for long-term growth and innovation.
Your Voice Matters
No one understands the challenges of doing business better than our members. Their perspectives guide everything we do. Whether it’s finding and retaining talent, navigating transportation and housing challenges, or preparing for the future of innovation, we listen — and we act.
About My Role
As Executive Vice President, I oversee the Chamber’s operations, programs, and internal processes — ensuring that our team, culture, and systems reflect our mission of service. I’m known for my focus on operational efficiency, creative problem-solving, and a deep commitment to our members. I take pride in helping businesses — from solopreneurs to corporate executives — identify the right Chamber resources and connections to help them grow.
What Sets Us Apart
Both personally and organizationally, what sets us apart is our authenticity and shared commitment to service. The Greater Perimeter Chamber team — staff and members alike — truly believes in the work we do. We take seriously our role in helping businesses succeed and in building a stronger, more connected regional economy.
Brand Pride
Brand-wise, I’m especially proud of our visual identity. When the Dunwoody Perimeter Chamber and the Sandy Springs Perimeter Chamber united, I had the honor of designing the new brand. Every element — from the color palette to the connected lines — represents unity, momentum, and the vibrancy of the Perimeter region. It’s deeply rewarding to see that vision embraced by our Board and community.
What I Want Readers to Know
The Greater Perimeter Chamber is more than a membership organization — we’re a connector, a convener, and a catalyst for regional growth. Our brand reflects who we are: inclusive, forward-thinking, and grounded in service. Whether you’re launching your first business or leading a major corporation, there’s a place for you here — and we’re ready to help you grow.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
During the summer months, while many people head for the beach, my family and I seek out wild and scenic rivers out West. We apply for permits, pack our raft and gear, and set out with a close group of friends—our “river family”—to paddle and camp our way from put-in to take-out over the course of a week.
We’ve run some incredible rivers together, including the Gates of Lodore, the Selway, the Rogue, Hells Canyon, the Yampa, and the Buffalo. But the most extraordinary experience of all has been rafting the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon—not once, but twice.
For 17 days, I traveled 270 miles by raft, completely immersed in the rhythm of the river. The journey demanded self-sufficiency, resilience, and resourcefulness while navigating wild rapids and remote terrain. Seeing the Grand Canyon from the waters that carved it—surrounded by its vast silence and timeless beauty—offered a perspective few ever experience. It’s an adventure that continues to shape how I see the world and approach both life and leadership.
Pricing:
- 2-5 Employees | $500 annually
- 2-5 Employees | $500 annually
- 21-50 Employees | $1,250 annually
- 51 + = Chariman’s Circle starting at $3000 Annually
Contact Info:
- Website: https://greaterperimeterchamber.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greaterperimeterchamber
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreaterPerimeterChamber/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/greater-perimeter-chamber/
- Twitter: https://x.com/BizPerimeter
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GreaterPerimeterChamber
