Showing posts with label Princeton Area Chamber. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Princeton Area Chamber. Show all posts

Friday, November 22, 2019

Job Openings in #chamberworld - Week of November 25th, 2019; Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Officer Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce - Alpharetta, GA $65,000 - $75,000 a year; Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce President - Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce - Cadillac, MI - $65,000 a year; St Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce Regional Profile and Membership Directory; Executive Director - Orange County Chamber of Commerce - Orange, VA - $45,000 a year; Executive Director - Downtown Wheaton Association - Wheaton, IL; Executive Director - Mineral Point Chamber of Commerce - Mineral Point, WI; Executive Director, Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce - Princeton, IL - $40,000 - $55,000 a year; Galesburg Area Chamber of Commerce seeking new Executive Director

Good morning #ChamberWorld! It's going to be a GREAT day!

Job Openings in #chamberworld - Week of November 25th, 2019


Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Officer Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce - Alpharetta, GA $65,000 - $75,000 a year


ALPHARETTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 
Perfectly positioned between the picturesque North Georgia Mountains and the bustling international city of Atlanta, Alpharetta is a unique and vibrant city combining Southern charm and high technology. This is why thousands of companies call Alpharetta home, including those with domestic and international operations.
Known across the region for its excellent school system, plentiful job opportunities, unique shopping & restaurant destinations, year-round cultural events, and beautiful parks,Alpharetta is located 22 miles north of Atlanta and is one of the hottest markets in both commercial and residential real estate. Yet, through all of its progress, Alpharetta has kept its small-town character.
LEADING INTO THE FUTURE
The Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce is seeking a dynamic, engaging individual to lead the organization into the future. The Chamber, whose mission is to promote a vibrant business climate and economy while enhancing the quality of life within our surrounding community, will be entering its eighth year in 2020 and has grown to be one of the largest Chambers in Georgia with nearly 400 members. The Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce has established close ties with elected officials and the business community and is regarded as a well-respected andintegral component of the North Fulton community.
POSITION: Chief Executive Officer
SUPERVISOR: Board of Directors
POSITION SUMMARY
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) provides executive leadership to the Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce and, in partnership with its Board of Directors, is responsible for its strategic direction and success. This position leads the organization in achieving its mission, including overseeing its financial stability, community and philanthropic relations, staffing, development, and operations, all under the policies, directives, and bylaws established by the Board of Directors. The CEO will be a key leader committed to the economic vitality of the Alpharetta and North Fulton region. This individual will lead the Chamber in helping businesses succeed and our communities thrive.
POSITION DETAILS
Responsibilities:
  • Strategic Planning and Implementation: At the direction of and in participation with the Board, the CEO creates and implements the strategic plan for the Chamber.
  • Members Services and Sales: The CEO is responsible for the overall performance of the Chamber’s membership activities, including membership acquisition, stewardship and retention.
  • Program Management: The CEO oversees and assesses the line-up, schedule, design, implementation, budget, and structure for the Chamber’s programs and events.
  • Human Resources: The CEO will attract, develop, discipline, retain, terminate, and pay employees per the Chamber’s bylaws and budgets with Board consent. He/she ensures compliance with relevant employment and workplace laws and works with the Board to ensure employees have the proper resources to be effective.
  • Finance and Accounting: The CEO ensures the Chamber establishes and follows generally accepted accounting and financial practices that ensures organizational safety and soundness, prepares annual budgets and forecasts for approval by the Board, prepares monthly financial reports and presents to the Finance Committee and Board, achieves budget targets, builds and maintains solid internal controls, sustains operations, and grows capacity for new initiatives.
  • Board Relations: The CEO will attend and provide participative consultation at all Board and Board committee meetings, provide the Board with adequate information to help it reach sound decisions and establish policies, and report regularly to the Board concerning progress toward organizational objectives, financial status and other issues of concern to the organization
  • Nonprofit Governance and Operations: The CEO ensures the Board, governance bodies, and volunteer leaders are actively engaged and aligned to support the mission and functional activities of the Chamber.
  • Public Relations/Outreach: The CEO is responsible for creating and maintaining a dynamic and forward-thinkingpublic image for the organization, including strategies for marketing, communications, media relations, community relations and public speaking. Regional and statewide travel may be required to promote the City of Alpharetta, the Chamber and its membership to a broader audience.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
  • Chamber Staff (currently one Membership & Events Manager) * Volunteers
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Previous association management experience in a closely related field
  • College degree from an accredited institution, preferably in marketing, planning or business or public administration or related field
  • Current or planned residence in or near Alpharetta, GA
  • Demonstrated ability to develop mutually productive working relations with other organizations, consumers, public officials, and funding sources
  • Demonstrated record of success in a leadership capacity, including ability to organize and plan effectively
  • CAE, CCE, IOM or other management certification desired
  • Possess excellent written and oral communications skills as well as be a good listener
  • Must be an articulate spokesperson on behalf of the Chamber using various methods of communications including traditional media and social media
  • Be able to form and enhance positive working relationships with a wide range of constituencies
  • Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community
  • Be able to think in innovative and creative ways, challenging self and the organization to set high expectations
  • Be comfortable with analytical detail while being focused on marketing, communication and relationship-building.
POSITION TYPE, SALARY & BENEFITS
  • Full-time position
  • Salary range of $65,000 - $75,000 per year, depending on qualifications
  • 401K with 3% matching
  • Monthly automobile allowance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Flexible schedule
ABOUT ALPHARETTA
To learn more about the Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce and the City of Alpharetta, please visit any of the following:
Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce: https://www.alpharettachamber.com/
City of Alpharetta: https://www.alpharetta.ga.us/
Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Bureau: https://www.awesomealpharetta.com/
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: $65,000.00 to $75,000.00 /year


Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce President - Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce - Cadillac, MI - $65,000 a year

TITLE: Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce President
INFORMATION: The Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking a President with vision and talent to direct our organization. With its focused mission, commitment to excellence, and dedication to embracing and capitalizing on future changes that impact our business communities, our Chamber is poised for increasing growth and visibility in the coming decade. The Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce is a private 501(c)(6), non-profit organization comprised of business and professional people dedicated to improving the economic environment of our region. The Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce is a visible business leader serving as a catalyst for our membership. The Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce services a diverse membership base including small business, education, health care, manufacturing, non-profit organizations, service, retail sectors, tourism and more. Our guiding principles were formulated from a core mission first advanced in 1899.
RESPONSIBILITIES: The President will do the following: lead the strategic development of the Chamber; build and strengthen partnerships and relationships with members, community leaders, Industry leaders, Government (State, County, City and Township) officials, and volunteers; maintain a high profile within the community; represent the Chamber in economic development, government affairs, business advocacy initiatives; assist and empower staff in seeking out, obtaining, and directing new and engaging events and sponsorships; formulate policies; build membership; align the resources necessary for the Chamber to remain a vital partner in shaping future enterprise and community development; manage the budget; and act as the Chamber’s public spokesperson.
IDEAL CANDIDATE: To fulfill these responsibilities, we seek a highly energetic, forward-thinking, politically savvy, bright, dynamic leader with a passion for change and exceptional communication, consensus building, and motivational skills. The ideal candidate will have proven successful experience in a position involving sophisticated interpersonal relations, collaboration, a high level of business and political acumen, diplomacy and judgment, integrity, flexibility, drive, professionalism, and credibility:
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Successful candidate must have a bachelor’s degree in business or related field or equivalent work/life experience
  • Upon hiring, the Executive Director must reside in, or intend to reside in the Cadillac area
  • Candidate should have experience working with a board of directors
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with Boards, employees, committees, governmental units, civic groups, and the general public
  • Knowledge of local community, state, and local government operations and legislative processes
  • Excellent public speaking, interpersonal, negotiation, communication, and management skills required
  • A strong business management background is essential, with an emphasis on marketing, sales, and event coordination.
GENERAL INFORMATION: The President will be primarily responsible for the Chamber’s membership-related programs and strategies. He or she will implement the Chamber’s “personal as possible” goals for serving its members and community, and will be able to thrive in a team-driven, collaborative work environment. As the “face of the Chamber,” the President must have strong written and oral communication and interpersonal skills. Hours are non-traditional, often including early morning and evening responsibilities, and work weeks in excess of forty hours. A salary commensurate with experience and credentials will be accompanied by an attractive fringe benefits package. It is anticipated that the President will be selected early in 2020 and be able to start work as-soon-as-possible.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Go to www.cadillac.org
The Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce (CACC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer providing a fair and equal employment opportunity for all associates and job applicants regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sex orientation, age, marital status or disability. The CACC hires and promotes individuals solely on the basis of their qualifications for the job to be filled.
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: $65,000.00 /year
Work Location:
  • One location
Benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Retirement plan
  • Paid time off
  • Relocation assistance
  • Professional development assistance


St Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce Regional Profile and Membership Directory

The St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Regional Profile and Membership Directory is available at the St. Cloud Area Chamber today! Thanks to the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!





Town SquarePublications  (www.townsquarepublications.com) can help you accomplish your chamber's gloss map, directory, community profile or publication needs at no expense to the chamber. Please email John Dussman at jdussman@tspubs.com or call (847)-427-4633.

Executive Director - Orange County Chamber of Commerce - Orange, VA - $45,000 a year


The Orange County Chamber of Commerce with its 300+ members seeks to hire an energetic, business-minded individual with superior organizational skills to be the Executive Director. The Executive Director is employed by, reports to, and is responsible to the Chamber Board of Directors. The Executive Director is the Chamber's chief administrative, operational, and executive officer. The Executive Director is responsible for developing and administering the Chamber budgets; identifying key issues and matters of importance to the Chamber, its members and the business community; growing membership in the Chamber; and conducting fundraising activities. The Executive Director is the Chamber's principal representative and spokesperson. Bachelor's Degree in a related field and previous Chamber of Commerce experience preferred but not required. Mail resumes to Recruitment Committee, Orange County Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 146, Orange, VA. 22960 or email resumes. Resumes will be accepted until December 3, 2019 or until position is filled. Chamber website: www.orangevachamber.com
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: $45,000.00 /year
Experience:
  • relevant: 1 year (Preferred)
Work Location:
  • One location
Benefits:
  • Paid time off
This Job Is:
  • A job for which all ages, including older job seekers, are encouraged to apply
Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday
  • Weekends required

Executive Director - Downtown Wheaton Association - Wheaton, IL

The Downtown Wheaton Association is currently seeking applicants for the role of Executive Director! This professional-level position is responsible for ensuring that the mission of building and maintaining a healthy and vibrant Downtown Wheaton is successfully implemented and executed.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Primary duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Provide support services, information and ongoing accountability to the Downtown Wheaton Board of Directors, its members and the City of Wheaton.
  • Implement organizational plans of work that fall within the Downtown Wheaton budget.
  • Work cooperatively with City officials, the Wheaton Chamber of Commerce and other civic/service organizations to ensure coordination of activities.
  • Develop and implement a business recruitment program that encompasses incentives, promotional material and methods of follow-up.
  • Provide direction and support to the Downtown Wheaton staff.
  • Develop strategies to ensure the successful implementation of organizational goals and objectives.
  • Support business and property owners within the Special Service Area and TIF #2 District known as Downtown Wheaton.
  • Execute major and minor special events in the downtown.
  • Oversee the marketing of Downtown Wheaton and administration of the Association.
  • Coordinate economic development efforts with the City of Wheaton staff.
  • Support the volunteer Board of Directors and membership.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Administration; management of the DWA staff, Board of Directors, budget oversite and creation and implementation of strategic plans to achieve Association goals.
  • Government and community relations; attendance at City Council meetings and maintaining a strong working relationship with City of Wheaton elected officials and staff.
  • Economic development; creation of strategies in partnership with businesses, property owners and the City to drive economic development in the downtown.
  • Marketing; promoting the downtown through marketing and promotional events designed to increase market reach and sales.
  • Special events; create and implement a calendar of special events designed to increase customer traffic and position the downtown as a destination in the market.
  • Media relations; serving as the spokesperson for the Association and cultivating supportive relationships in the media industry.
Qualifications:
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, PowerPoint, Excel, QuickBooks and selected website formats.
  • Strong public speaking and writing skills.
  • Marketing and fundraising expertise.
To Apply:
All qualified candidates should submit a cover letter and resume through Indeed.com by 5:00 p.m., November 22nd, 2019. No phone inquiries please.
Job Type: Full-time
Experience:
  • Microsoft: 5 years (Preferred)
  • Public Speaking: 5 years (Preferred)
  • Marketing: 5 years (Preferred)

Executive Director - Mineral Point Chamber of Commerce - Mineral Point, WI


The Mineral Point Chamber of Commerce invites applications for the full-time position of Executive Director.
About Mineral Point
Located in the beautiful driftless hills of southwestern Wisconsin, Mineral Point is a creative community filled with makers of all kinds, from painters and potters to farmers and foodies. Our historic architecture, artist galleries and studios, charming shops, delicious dining, cozy lodging and friendly folks attract residents and visitors from near and far and businesses including manufacturing, construction, healthcare, design services, and more. For more information, see www.mineralpoint.com.
About the Mineral Point Chamber of Commerce
The mission of the Mineral Point Chamber of Commerce is to stimulate business, civic, agricultural and economic development in Mineral Point and its environs by encouraging cooperation and building leadership in the community; creating a positive image by promoting the city as an exciting place to live, shop and invest; improving the appearance of the community; and receiving, administering and distributing funds in connection with any activities related to the above purposes.
Position Summary
Reporting to the Board of Directors and working with and on behalf of Mineral Point’s stakeholders, the preferred candidate for our next Executive Director will be energetic, innovative, visionary, and passionate with proven leadership skills. Responsibilities of the position include:
  • Managing the daily operations of the Chamber office, staff, and volunteers, and the strategic development and implementation of the Chamber’s mission and policies;
  • Serving as a leader within the Chamber and community, and an advocate in support of a favorable business and living environment;
  • Working collaboratively with the Board, Chamber committees, and community partners including the City of Mineral Point and Mineral Point Tourism Commission;
  • Financial administration including-general management, budgeting, and maintenance of financial records;
  • Membership maintenance, retention, and recruitment;
  • Business retention and economic development.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree and five years of relevant experience, preferably in a chamber/tourism industry or in a very similar public-facing, membership-funded organization;
  • Five years of experience in marketing, event management, fund development, and financial management to include budgeting and analysis.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communications skills, including public speaking, and the ability to adapt communication style to fit the situation and audience;
  • Computer and Internet proficiency to include Microsoft Office Suite, Google Drive, social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter), ChamberMaster software or equivalents, and database management.
  • Enthusiasm for working in a collaborative and providing superior customer service to a diverse environment using telephone, mail, or email.
  • Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, flexibility, and patience.
  • Superior attention to detail and accuracy and ability to respect the confidentiality of organizational, customer, and donation information.
To apply for this position, which includes a competitive salary, please complete the employment application and submit a letter of interest and resume at https://www.cognitoforms.com/MineralPointChamberOfCommerce/MineralPointChamberOfCommerceEmploymentApplication
The position will remain open until filled.
The Mineral Point Chamber of Commerce is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran or uniformed service member status or any other characteristic protected by law.


Executive Director, Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce - Princeton, IL - $40,000 - $55,000 a year

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The mission of the Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce is to proudly promote the viability, continued growth and quality of life in the Princeton area through economic development, historic preservation and tourism.
The Princeton Chamber of Commerce Board is pleased to announce the recruitment and selection process for the Executive Director of its organization.
Interested candidates should submit a confidential cover letter, resume and contact information for three to five work-related references to the search committee by mail to:
Search Committee
c/o Derek Fetzer
Heartland Bank and Trust Company
606 S Main St
Princeton, IL 61356
The Chamber is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
POSITION: Executive Director Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce
SUPERVISOR: Under the direct supervision of the Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:
Membership Retention and Growth
  • Communicate with existing and new businesses to retain and increase membership, hear their concerns, and encourage active participation in Chamber activities and programs.
  • Set goals with the Board of Directors for acquiring new members and provide a monthly report to the Board on the status of those activities.
  • Develop new member benefits.
  • Develop and maintain relations with major employers/members.
  • Recommend necessary changes in the membership dues.
Program Development
  • Develop and maintain relationships with chamber members to identify their concerns and community needs.
  • Work closely with Chamber advocacy groups and committees representing business needs with all levels of public policy makers and officials.
Community Liaison, Public Relations and Outreach
  • Develop and maintain relationships within the community, including appropriate governmental staff and departments, as well as other community leaders.
  • Serve as the Chamber representative to local organizations contributing to their mission by serving as the voice of business.
  • Attend professional conferences, seminars, and other agency meetings as directed and approved by the Chamber Board or Executive Committee.
  • Maintain contact with media representatives to provide visibility of the Chamber activities to the public reflecting the attitudes and interest of business.
  • Act as official spokesperson and represent the Chamber in meetings of local and state organizations.
  • Direct, prepare, and disseminate all communications to the membership and the general public.
  • Make public addresses or secure other appropriate speakers concerning the Chamber and community activities and issues.
  • Seek to develop strong working relationships with surrounding Chamber entities.
  • Stay apprised of governmental initiatives affecting chamber members and initiatives.
  • Network with local and related trade associations that may affect or enrich member interests.
Board Development
  • Prepare monthly agendas for board meetings.
  • Prepare and present monthly reports and financial statements for the Board of Directors.
  • Prepare an annual operating budget with input from the budget committee covering all activities in the Chamber, subject to the approval by the Board of Directors.
  • Bring all policy changes and government issues to the Board’s attention for their approval and direction.
  • Serve as chief advisor to the Board of Directors. Advice, guidance, and assistance shall be provided to the Board of Officers in the selection of board members, officers, committee chairperson and committee members.
Administration and Finance
  • Supervise all staff administrative functions.
  • Empower and support staff providing direction.
  • Evaluate staff performance on an annual basis to assure satisfactory staff functions and accomplishment of Chamber’s objectives.
  • Responsible for the safeguarding of all funds received and for their proper disbursement within budget allocations.
  • Evaluate the financial needs by program, administration, and operations for the fiscal year and long-range.
General Administrative
  • Conduct the official correspondence of the Chamber and maintain records of the same.
  • Meet all necessary legal and financial reporting requirements.
  • Approve and sign checks on all Board approved budget expenditures.
  • Direct office maintenance including replacement of equipment and purchase of additional equipment.
  • Preserve all legal and historical documents relating to the Chamber’s activities, programs, property and positions.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Board of Directors.
Job Type: Full-time
This Job Is Ideal for Someone Who Is:
  • People-oriented -- enjoys interacting with people and working on group projects
  • Adaptable/flexible -- enjoys doing work that requires frequent shifts in direction
  • Detail-oriented -- would rather focus on the details of work than the bigger picture
  • Achievement-oriented -- enjoys taking on challenges, even if they might fail
  • Dependable -- more reliable than spontaneous
  • Innovative -- prefers working in unconventional ways or on tasks that require creativity
  • High stress tolerance -- thrives in a high-pressure environment
  • Autonomous/Independent -- enjoys working with little direction

Galesburg Area Chamber of Commerce seeking new Executive Director
Location: Galesburg, IL
Contact: Karrie Hearlein
City: Galesburg
State: IL
Zip: 61401
Description:
Would you like to be a connector and convener in the Greater Galesburg Area? Do you have a vision for a region full of thriving businesses, vibrant communities and talented, connected people? The Galesburg Area Chamber of Commerce is searching for an innovative, decisive and enthusiastic leader for the role of Executive Director.

The Executive Director provides executive leadership to the Galesburg Area Chamber of Commerce and, in partnership with the Board of Directors, is responsible for its strategic direction and success. This position leads the organization in achieving its mission, including overseeing its financial stability, community and philanthropic relations, staffing, development, and operations, under the policies, directives, and guidelines established by the Board of Directors. The Executive Director will be a key leader committed to the economic vitality of the Knox County and Galesburg region. This individual will lead the chamber in helping businesses succeed and our communities thrive. See more: IACCE





Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.


Town Square Publications, a division of the Daily Herald Media Group, is a national chamber custom publishing group that specializes in developing partnerships by producing high-quality print and digitally integrated publications along with other added value programs dedicated to creating relevancy for local chambers of commerce and other membership focused organizations interested in raising non-dues revenues.

Town Square Publications parent company, Paddock Publications, has over 100 years’ experience of print product development and dedicated customer service in communities throughout the Midwest. Our experience allows Town Square Publications to offer you attractive royalty and non-dues revenue share streams, provide direct distribution of your custom designed printed publications, including digital and mobile integration, and all with the quickest turn-around times available in the industry. Town Square also offers multi-media maps in both print and online formats, both with our No-Cost guarantee. More information: Town Square Publications

Chambers of Commerce and member focused organizations serve as a valuable resource in the local marketplace. The networking opportunities and representation with a wide variety of diverse businesses in your community is the catalyst of a successful organization. For further information about Town Square's publishing partnership with chambers of commerce and our No-Cost guarantee and Earned Revenue Share Program, To request your chamber publication or map proposal, contact Town Square Chamber Proposal

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Paducah Chamber Grows to Record Membership of 1,060 members; Jeff Rea, president and CEO of the St. Joseph County Chamber of Commerce: Ways to grow state's firms; Michigan Lt. Governor Brian Calley and Supreme Court Justice Richard Bernstein will be joining the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce and the Michigan Chamber of Commerce as the guest speakers for the Dearborn Area Chamber’s upcoming Business Builder Series, as a part of the 2015 Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals (MACP) Annual Convention; Job-promoting partnerships lauded at Charlottesville chamber summit; Princeton Chamber hosts Illinois director of tourism; The eighth annual Lodi and Lake Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Brew-B-Que: Bring on the barbecue; Vicksburg-Warren County Chamber Community Fund: Walking trails project will provide new experience for visitors, residents; Non-Dues Revenue: Town Square Gloss Chamber Directories in Multi-media Format

Good morning Chamber world! Today is going to be a GREAT day!


Paducah Chamber Grows to Record Membership of 1,060 members


The results for the Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual membership campaign includes a record total reaching 1,060 members, a net gain of 20 members over 2014.

This makes the Paducah Area Chamber the fifth largest Chamber in Kentucky, behind Louisville, Northern Kentucky, Lexington, and around 100 businesses less than Bowling Green.
The campaign exceeded its goal and recruited 142 new members during the four-week campaign.
"This has been a busy time for the Chamber with our recent trip to DC, to our local seminars and events, to having this campaign underway,” said Bruce Wilcox, chair-elect of the Paducah Chamber and president of Petter Supply. “Our new members range from Fluff Cupcakes to several new businesses under construction such as IMAC Regeneration Center, Chin Restaurant and Vertical Jump Park to some established businesses who have not been a member and have now decided to join.”         
The top producer for the volunteers for the campaign was Janice Cleary with Paducah Bank. Second place individual award went to David Morse with KeeFORCE; third place was Jill Harper with Capstone HR; fourth place was Jessica Newman with Advantage Insurance; and fifth place was Tony Copeland with Arkema. Read more: Western Kentucky News

Jeff Rea, president and CEO of the St. Joseph County Chamber of Commerce: Ways to grow state's firms


Business leaders recognize that for their own business to grow, several things need to happen. They need to find new customers and they need to retain and grow existing customers.


Some will get lucky and new customers will randomly find them. Others will need to be found. Businesses will carefully craft a strategy to reach out to potential customers and make sure customers know of the unique offerings of their business. In the end, they hope new customers choose them, instead of the competition.
Economic development in our region and state is similar. Our communities need to attract new businesses and at the same time retain and grow existing businesses. Some of those new businesses will find us; we need to go find others.
Gov. Mike Pence is leading an Indiana delegation of business and community leaders on a visit of Japan this week. The governor’s mission: to make sure Japanese businesses know about opportunities in Indiana. The governor and his delegation are seeking to bring new “customers” home to Indiana.
Over the past two years, similar trips have been made across the United States and to foreign countries such as Canada, Germany, Great Britain, Israel and China. In all, more than $2 million was raised from private contributions to help finance trips.
Those trips netted new projects for Indiana including three German companies that have announced Indiana expansions. In addition, agricultural processor Tate & Lyle announced a $90 million Indiana expansion during Pence’s trip to the United Kingdom in 2014 and an additional $65 million expansion in March. Read more: South Bend Tribune



Michigan Lt. Governor Brian Calley and Supreme Court Justice Richard Bernstein will be joining the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce and the Michigan Chamber of Commerce as the guest speakers for the Dearborn Area Chamber’s upcoming Business Builder Series, as a part of the 2015 Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals (MACP) Annual Convention. 

Michigan Lt. Governor Brian Calley and Supreme Court Justice Richard Bernstein will be joining the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce and the Michigan Chamber of Commerce as the guest speakers for the Dearborn Area Chamber’s upcoming Business Builder Series, as a part of the 2015 Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals (MACP) Annual Convention. The breakfast, sponsored by Beaumont Health, will take place on Thursday, October 29, 2015, beginning at 7:30 am at Dearborn Inn, located at 20301 Oakwood in Dearborn.

Calley and Bernstein are the fourth speakers for the Chamber’s 2015 Business Builder Series, a Chamber program designed to help local businesses and community leaders grow and enhance their organizational goals. Speakers this year have included the mayors of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights, a prestigious panel of area executives joining in a U.S. Chamber sponsored discussion of women in business leadership, and John Fleming of Ford Motor Company.

“We are delighted to welcome Lt. Governor Calley and Justice Bernstein to our area, especially as the host of the highly anticipated Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals Annual Convention,” commented Jackie Lovejoy, President of the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce. “2015 marks the 50th anniversary of the MACP, and as a result we are looking forward to hosting various industry leaders from all over the State of Michigan for this historic and important event this fall.”

The event is open to the public and will include a delicious breakfast and networking, to be followed by the guest speakers and an opportunity for questions from the audience. Breakfast is sponsored by DTE Energy.

Registration is required for this event. Early bird pricing is only $30 for members of the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce, and $45 for potential members and the general public. To register and for more information, please visit the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce online at www.DearbornAreaChamber.org or by phone at 313-584-6100. For more information on the Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals, visit www.michamberconnect.com.


Job-promoting partnerships lauded at Charlottesville chamber summit



Community members talked about what is working in workforce development on Wednesday at the Charlottesville Regional Chamber of Commerce Jobs Action Summit.

The 2015 Chamber Jobs Report and Orange Dot Report were presented at the summit, along with other presentations from community members on current employment efforts in the area.

Presenter Don Gathers, the front-desk supervisor at the Graduate Hotel Charlottesville, completed the city’s GO Office program, a six-week training program that prepares city residents for a career in office administration with one of the program’s partner employers. The city has completed three types of Growing Opportunity programs, GO Driver, GO Office and GO Electric.

“The most gratifying piece of this wonderful puzzle is that the GO Office program has given me the chance to reach back and help others by being able to offer others employment opportunities,” Gathers said. Read more: Daily Progress




Princeton Chamber hosts Illinois director of tourism



 Cory Jobe, director of the Illinois Office of Tourism, spoke at the Princeton Chamber of Commerce quarterly luncheon on Tuesday, Sept. 1, at The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens.
Jobe talked about the importance of tourism and the economic benefits it brings to local communities.
“Tourism supports business growth and job creation. Viable tourism areas provide places for entrepreneurs to succeed, increasing the viability and vitality of a commercial area,” he said. “This, in turn, supports economic growth through the community.”
Jobe announced in 2014, Illinois attracted more than 107 million visitors, which was a 3.8 percent increase from 2013. These visitors spent around $36 billion in the state, Jobe said.
This past year, the state has started to reach out to a younger traveler. Jobe said millennials are growing steadily in power and quickly becoming a target audience for tourism. Jobe’s office came up with the perfect medium to reach this group, which was through the social media website, Instagram. Read more: BCRNEWS.com


The eighth annual Lodi and Lake Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Brew-B-Que: Bring on the barbecue


What do you get when succulent smoked ribs, delicious craft beer and great live music are combined?
The eighth annual Lodi and Lake Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Brew-B-Que of course.
“It's a backyard barbecue turned into a block party,” event co-chair Jason Rasmussen says. “We shut down Main Street and it allows everybody from town, and the surrounding areas, to get together.”
Area grill masters will compete to win the judges’ or people’s choice awards at this year’s event and take home a plaque commemorating their rib making prowess along with cash prizes.
Only those with VIP tickets will have the opportunity to sample ribs and place their vote for best in show. VIP tickets are still on sale for $40 and include the cost of sampling and voting in the homemade chili and home brewing competition. They can be purchased prior to or on the day of the event.
So basically, if you are getting a VIP ticket, expect to leave the event with a full belly and a smile on your face. Read more: HNGnews.com


Vicksburg-Warren County Chamber Community Fund: Walking trails project will provide new experience for visitors, residents
The Board of Mayor and Aldermen Monday took another step toward making Vicksburg a desired location for visitors by approving an agreement with the Vicksburg-Warren County Chamber of Commerce Community Fund and the National Park Service for a $25,000 Lower Mississippi Delta Initiative grant to develop five walking trails in the downtown and historic districts.
“This grant agreement is to develop a series of five walking trails to traverse the downtown area, the historic districts and downtown neighborhoods,” said Bill Justice, Vicksburg National Military Park superintendent. “The trust project will benefit local residents, as it will provide health and fitness opportunities while at same time providing heritage walking tours that cover Vicksburg’s rich and diverse architecture and history.”
When completed, the walking trails will start from the Yazoo & Mississippi Valley Depot on Levee Street and allow visitors to tour the city on foot, providing an opportunity to get a look at the city’s unique architecture and historic buildings they could never get by cruising the city in a car or tour bus.
Downtown’s varied terrain of hills and dips can provide local walkers with a good workout.
- See more at: Vicksburg Post


Non-Dues Revenue: Town Square Gloss Chamber Directories in Multi-media Format

Town Square Publications parent company, Paddock Publications, with over 100 years’ experience of print product development and dedicated customer service in communities throughout the Midwest, allows Town Square Publications to offer you attractive royalty and non-dues revenue share streams, provide direct distribution of your custom designed printed publications, including digital and mobile integration, and all with the quickest turn-around times available in the industry. Town Square also offers multi-media maps in both print and online formats, both with our No-Cost guarantee. For further information about Town Square's publishing partnership with chambers of commerce and our No-Cost guarantee and Earned Revenue Share Program, contact John Dussman directly at the Town Square offices at 847-427-4633. Mailing Address: 155 E. Algonquin Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60005. Email address: jdussman@tspubs.com 

Wednesday, August 26, 2015

Oshkosh Chamber good news: Army awards tactical vehicle contract to Wisconsin firm; U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly Works at Evansville Otters Game, Meets with Southwest Indiana Chamber of Commerce; Michigan Chamber of Commerce Launches "Don't Sign Away Your Job" Campaign; 2015 Annual Awards from the Northern Kentucky Chamber; Chamber Best Practices: Leadership Mississippi Application; Fairfax Chamber’s NOVABIZPAC Announces New Trustees; Illinois Office of Tourism director Cory Jobe featured at Princeton Area Chamber quarterly luncheon

Good morning Chamber world! Today is going to be a GREAT day!

Oshkosh Chamber good news: Army awards tactical vehicle contract to Wisconsin firm


Wisconsin-based Oshkosh Corp. won a major contract Tuesday to build a new combat vehicle to replace a large share of the U.S. military's Humvee troop carriers.
The Department of Defense awarded the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle contract to Oshkosh Defense, one of three firms that were finalists for the work. The $6.7 billion contract is expected to support thousands of jobs.
The Army and Marine Corps plan to buy as many as 55,000 JLTVs by 2040. Nearly 49,100 would be built for the Army with 5,500 going to the Marines. The vehicle is designed to provide more protection against roadside bombs and mines than Humvees without being as big as another military vehicle produced by Oshkosh, the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle, or MRAP.
Oshkosh Defense beat out Maryland-based Lockheed Martin and Indiana-based AM General for the contract. Pentagon officials declined during a briefing for reporters to say why they chose Oshkosh over its competitors.
Scott Davis, the Army's executive officer for the program, said the big winners are the soldiers and Marines who will gain a vehicle that offers a better balance of protection, payload and performance.
"Our JLTV has been extensively tested and is proven to provide the ballistic protection of a light tank, the underbody protection of an MRAP-class vehicle, and the off-road mobility of a Baja racer," John Urias, president of Oshkosh Defense and a retired Army major general, said in a statement.
Lockheed had said it would build the vehicle at its Camden facility in Arkansas, and state lawmakers there dangled an $87 million incentive package. It's not clear whether Wisconsin or Indiana offered any incentives, but union workers at Oshkosh in 2013 agreed to a contract extension so that the company could nail down its labor costs for the project.
The contract is a timely boost for Oshkosh, which eliminated about 760 jobs last year because of declining defense spending. The company plans to build the vehicle in Oshkosh, with deliveries beginning in 10 months.
"It's really a historic win for Oshkosh and it's a big victory for our employees and really the state of Wisconsin," Oshkosh Corp. CEO Charles L. Szews said in a telephone interview. "It means that we will have a stable revenue base for our company. ... More importantly, it means the brave men and women who go into harm's way will be protected" in a high-speed, light tactical vehicle.
The company initially plans to hire about 100 salaried employees, Szews said, and more production employees might be hired later. Production would begin in two to three years and would ramp up from a few hundred vehicles per year to 3,000 vehicles per year under the contract, he said.
The contract initially calls for 17,000 vehicles, with the Army to decide in 2018 whether to purchase the rest of its share, which would push the value of the contract up to around $30 billion. The Marines will get all theirs up front.
The contact will mean business for companies that supply Oshkosh Corp. and the economic benefits will ripple across the Oshkosh area for years, said Rob Kleman of the Oshkosh Area Chamber of Commerce. Read more: Fox News


U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly Works at Evansville Otters Game, Meets with Southwest Indiana Chamber of Commerce

Spends afternoon in Evansville meeting with business leaders and the evening doing a “Donnelly Day” at Bosse Field

Yesterday afternoon, Donnelly met with the Southwest Indiana Chamber of Commerce to discuss issues important to southwest Indiana’s economy. At the Otters game last night, Donnelly threw out the first pitch, flipped burgers, changed the scoreboard, and helped the announcers for his latest “Donnelly Day.” Read more: Donnelly.senate.gov


Michigan Chamber of Commerce Launches "Don't Sign Away Your Job" Campaign


Michigan Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Rich Studley today announced the launch of a statewide campaign against the proposed $900 million corporate income tax hike by three construction unions.
"We are strongly committed to informing voters about the harmful consequences of the proposed 83% tax hike on over 38,000 job providers," said Studley. 'This political attack on employers will cause greater unemployment, increased prices on a wide range of products and services, and would take a wrecking ball to Michigan's economic competitiveness."
"If approved, this union ballot proposal will severely damage our state's economic competitiveness by giving Michigan the second highest corporate tax rate among all states," Studley continued. "Just like alligators, these construction unions will bite the hand that feeds them and voters need to know that their jobs are at stake. We urge voters to not sign away their jobs."
The Michigan Chamber today released two digital advertisements. To view the ads and additional information on the proposed tax increase, go to www.michamber.com/CIT-Tax-Hike. Read more: Michigan Chamber

2015 Annual Awards from the Northern Kentucky Chamber

The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce will honor several individuals during the 2015 Annual Dinner on September 17.
The recipients:
The Walter R. Dunlevy/Frontiersman Award recognizes individuals who have a life long history of outstanding service to the Northern Kentucky community, exhibit outstanding service to their profession or industry and exemplify the highest standards of personal integrity and family responsibility. 
This year’s recipient is Gary Beatrice with Business Benefits Insurance Solutions. Mr. Beatrice has a respected history of service to the insurance industry, as well as service as chair of the Northern Kentucky Consensus Committee, chair of the HealthPoint Foundation Board, board member for Northern Kentucky University’s Health Innovations Center, and chair of the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce.
The Walter L. Pieschel Award is named after the Chamber’s first volunteer leader and is given to an individual who exemplifies outstanding service to the Chamber. 
This year’s recipient is Dale Silver with C-Forward, Inc. Among many accomplishments, Ms. Silver has been instrumental in the growth of the NKY Chamber’s Women’s Initiative, served on the NKY Chamber Board of Directors, and held leadership positions as an alumna of Leadership Northern Kentucky. Read more: River City News

Chamber Best Practices: Leadership Mississippi Application

Below you will find the full application to become a member of the Leadership Mississippi Class of 2016. Upon completion, you will receive an e-mail with further instructions regarding your application. Your application will then be reviewed by a committee of MEC’s Leadership Mississippi Alumni and a decision will be made regarding your acceptance. You will be notified of the decision in November.
* Please note that your application will not be considered complete until we receive:
  • 1. A completed application
  • 2. Two letters of recommendation -
  • Please send to:
    Cathy Northington
    P.O. Box 23276
    Jackson, MS 39225-3276
  • 3. Employer Consent Form
  • 4. $25 Application Fee
More information and online application: Mississippi Economic Council


Fairfax Chamber’s NOVABIZPAC Announces New Trustees 

Tysons Corner, Va. –The Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce’s (Fairfax Chamber) NOVABIZPAC (Northern Virginia Business Political Action Committee) has announced seven new members to its Board of Trustees. 

The following individuals named to the Board are:
  • Doug Brammer, Verizon
  • C. Michael Ferraro, TRAINING SOLUTIONS, Inc.
  • Mike Forehand, Inova
  • Brian Gordon, Apartment and Office Building Association (AOBA)
  • Mark Moore, John Marshall Bank, and past chair of the Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce
  • Phil Panzarella, 5GS, LLC, and past chair of the Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce
  • Todd Rowley, Cardinal Bank

“I’m delighted to welcome these outstanding Chamber members and business leaders to NOVABIZPAC’s Board,” said NOVABIZPAC Chair, Scott McGeary of Washington Gas. “They will provide valuable service and insights as the PAC considers endorsements of candidates seeking our support. I look forward to working with each of them.”

The seven new board members join a diverse group of trustees from varying industries and sectors of the Virginia economy. A full list of the NOVABIZPAC’s Board of Trustees can be found online.

NOVABIZPAC was founded in 2002 to support Virginia legislators and policymakers who promote a favorable business climate and a high quality of life in Virginia. NOVABIZPAC is administered by a Board of Trustees composed of top executives and government affairs professionals from Chamber member companies. The success of NOVABIZPAC is not possible without the effective participation of the Northern Virginia business community in the political process and the financial support of our members. - See more at: Fairfax Chamber


Illinois Office of Tourism director Cory Jobe featured at Princeton Area Chamber quarterly luncheon



The Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce will welcome Cory Jobe, director of the Illinois Office of Tourism, to Princeton as keynote speaker of the quarterly luncheon.
Jobe is responsible for leading the state’s tourism industry marketing and development efforts. He works in collaboration with tourism industry professionals to promote visitor travel both domestically and internationally, and to help grow the tourism industry throughout the state. Leading a robust tourism industry supports the state’s economic growth and jobs, contributes to the tax base and increases the quality of life for Illinois residents.
The public is invited to join as he shares his principles on Tuesday, Sept. 1, at The Barn located at Hornbaker Gardens in Princeton. Lunch will begin at 11:30 a.m. The cost of the event is $16 per person and includes lunch. Reservations can be made by calling the Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce office at 815-875-2616.
The Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce has more than 340 members and serves as a service and action organization for business as well as a community development organization. The mission of the Chamber is to promote the viability, continued growth and quality of life in the Princeton area through economic development, historic presentation and tourism. Read more: BCRNews.com