Northside Neighborhood House Named Brandon Hubbard-Heitz CEO

The Chattanooga organization selected the current strategist to lead its operations starting in November.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in People

Isometric editorial illustration of a brick community center building with an arched entrance, representing an institutional leadership appointment. — Northside Neighborhood House has appointed Brandon Hubbard-Heitz, a veteran education and nonprofit strategist, as its next chief executive officer. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The board of directors of Northside Neighborhood House has appointed Brandon Hubbard-Heitz as its new chief executive officer. He will officially begin the role on November 9, 2026.

Why it matters

Hubbard-Heitz brings over 15 years of experience in nonprofit and education leadership to the organization. This transition is intended to continue the group's mission of supporting residents in the Chattanooga area.

Hubbard-Heitz has 15 years of leadership experience and managed a 13-school Literacy First partnership. He also previously oversaw a network of nearly 50 youth-serving organizations.

The players

Brandon Hubbard-Heitz

He is an education and nonprofit leader who currently serves as the chief strategy officer at Chattanooga 2.0.

Jessica Whatley

She has led Northside Neighborhood House since September 2024 and is assisting with the leadership transition.

Northside Neighborhood House

This Chattanooga-based organization provides social services and support to residents within Hamilton County.

The details

Hubbard-Heitz currently serves as the chief strategy officer at Chattanooga 2.0 and formerly worked as an assistant principal at East Brainerd Elementary School. He holds degrees from Wake Forest University and Lee University, and he will work alongside outgoing leader Jessica Whatley during the transition period.

September 2024: Jessica Whatley began her leadership at Northside Neighborhood House.
November 9, 2026: Brandon Hubbard-Heitz begins his role as CEO.
Early December 2026: Jessica Whatley concludes her transition support work.

Market Landscape

The hiring of a strategy-focused executive reflects the broader trend of integrating educational development into regional nonprofit service models. This move positions the organization to leverage existing city-wide networks to expand its local impact.

Residents and stakeholders of Northside Neighborhood House can expect a transition period as leadership changes through early December. The move may signal shifts in the organization's strategic approach to community services within the Hamilton County area.

The takeaway

Selecting a leader with extensive experience in both education and nonprofit strategy highlights the increasing importance of interdisciplinary skills in the social services sector. Community members and local stakeholders should monitor upcoming initiatives for shifts in organizational focus.