Showing posts with label Virginia chamber. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Virginia chamber. Show all posts

Saturday, March 7, 2020

Job Openings in #ChamberWorld - Week of March 9, 2020 ; President/CEO - Terch & Associates on behalf of Laurentian Chamber of Commerce - Virginia, MN; Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance (IL) Engages Search Firm for CEO; Event Manager, Virginia Chamber of Commerce - Richmond, VA - $22 - $28 an hour; Marketing Coordinator - Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce - Terre Haute, IN; Financial Specialist/Office Manager - Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce - Sterling, IL - a 5 STAR chamber; 4 Star Chamber - Flint & Genesee Chamber: Grant Specialist; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.

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


Week of March 9, 2020







Chamber of Commerce Daily News
presented by Town Square Publications
https://www.townsquarepublications.com 
by John Dussman








Job Openings in #ChamberWorld - Week of March 9, 2020



Chamber President - Confidential - Louisville, KY Salary: $85,000.00 to $100,000.00


Job Title: President
Reports To: Board of Directors
FLSA Status: Exempt
Summary: Reporting to the Board of Directors, the President is the chief administrator for the Chamber of Commerce. Key areas of responsibilities are to provide overall leadership of the entire organization including operations, fiscal management, marketing, fundraising, public/community relations, program development and delivery, human resource management and strategic direction. Specifically, the President instills the mission of the Chamber, serves as liaison with local government and advocates for local business and economic development.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities of the President include, but are not limited to the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Implement the mission, vision and values of the Chamber.
  • Facilitate strategic and operational planning with the Board of Directors and the staff.
  • Provide support in the recruitment of Board members representative of the diverse sectors of business.
  • Recommend to the Board of Directors sound governance policies and ensure current, relevant policies are implemented in accordance with the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws and local, state and federal standards and regulations.
  • Plans with the support of staff all fundraising, recognition and educational programs and events which are beneficial for the participants and successfully represents the Chamber within the Community and with Members.
  • Serves as Ex Officio member of all Board and Chamber committees.
  • Lead in the development of innovative and targeted programs to meet Chamber members current and changing needs based upon the mission and values.
  • Ensure all programs consistently deliver innovative, high quality services that are aligned with the mission and values.
  • Recognize the importance of economic development and implement actions to enhance economic growth.
  • Ability to budget, interpret and analyze financial statements.
  • Develop and recommend the annual financial budget to the Board of Directors for approval and implementation.
  • Monitor and deliver successful financial performance and monitors the financial operations including accounts receivable, payables, payroll, financial statements, audit, control processes.
  • Demonstrate fiscal restraint and insights balanced with a return to members on their investment.
  • Lead the fundraising efforts, together with the staff, the Executive Committee and the Board of Directors.
  • Build relationships with sponsors and potential sponsors.
  • Be the leading spokesperson and consensus-builder for the Chamber.
  • Ability to work with diverse sectors of our community to build and maintain strong collaborative relationships with individuals and partner organizations and businesses.
  • Ability to direct public relations efforts so the Chamber is recognized for its agenda and value to the community.
  • Serve as liaison with local government entities (city, county) through interaction by serving on a diverse range of committees, taskforces and public meetings.
  • Provide leadership, direction and development for staff (paid and volunteer) and ensure the ability to attract and retain highly motivated and effective personnel.
  • Ensure policies are implemented fairly, consistently and within policy guidelines.
  • Responsible for hiring, discharging and directing all employees.
Supervisory Responsibilities of the President:
Directly supervises up to four (4) employees. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable federal and state laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring in conjunction with the appropriate Search Committee and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
The President has additional capabilities that include:
  • Capacity to inspire and lead innovative program development in strategic directions and move the organization forward in a cohesive, collaborative fashion.
  • Embody consensus-oriented management, effective decision making, and strategic thinking combined with practical implementation.
  • Excellent knowledge in the implementation and monitoring of sound fiscal practices that ensure organizational safety and soundness as well as acceptable audit reviews.
  • Organizing and attending, with the staff, various events throughout the year which may occur during evening hours and weekends.
  • A strong, creative and compelling speaker and leader with good personal and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Show results of effective planning and facilitate cooperation and collaboration both internally and with community organizations.
  • Character, integrity and passion with a commitment to community issues, and provide inclusive, respectful leadership of the Chamber.
  • A consensus builder who can instill a high level of accountability while also supporting team-based decision-making.
  • Diplomatic and yet decisive with the ability to accomplish goals through motivation and delegation, and through systems that are designed for effective planning, evaluation, and accountability.
  • Exceptional organizational and administrative skills including the ability to think strategically, plan, set goals and objectives, and then organize and follow-through for results.
Qualifications of the President: A minimum of seven years experience in senior management, preferably within a Chamber of Commerce or similar career background in nonprofit, private or public sectors. Direct experience providing services to business and community. Relevant experience will be considered that demonstrates leadership in the management of complex and dynamic organizations as well as broad exposure to organizational and fiscal management. Experience that demonstrates the ability to conceptualize, plan, implement, administer, evaluate, communicate and develop funding resources for programs is essential. Successful experience in general management, budgeting and financial management, marketing, human resources management and Board/volunteer relations is highly desirable. Successful completion of background and drug screen.
Education and/or Experience:
An undergraduate degree is required and is preferably in one of the following fields of study: Business Administration, Management OR an equivalent field. An advanced degree is preferred.
Language Skills:
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, procedure manuals and articles for periodicals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.
Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Requires working nights and weekends prior to and during Chamber events
  • Requires the ability to sit up to 3-6 hours per day with intermittent occasional walking and standing.
  • Requires the ability to drive up to 4-6 hours per day.
  • Occasionally may be required to lift items up to 10 pounds to a height of up to 6 feet; up to 25 pounds to a height of 4 feet.
  • Occasionally may be required to carry items up to 25 pounds for distances up to 75 feet.
  • Requires ability to speak in public and participate in meetings.
  • Occasional out of state travel.
Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Typical office work environment with normal noise levels
  • Off site and in field visits which may be loud or chaotic at times
  • Multiple county responsibilities and travel which bring a variety of work environment situations, none of which would require any special protective equipment such as hearing protection, respirators etc. or bring any short term hazards
The Chamber is a not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to creating a strong local business and networking environment for and surrounding area companies. Operating since 1963 it is now one of the largest chamber of commerce in the area with over 1,000 members.
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: $85,000.00 to $100,000.00
Work Location:
  • One location
Benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Retirement plan
Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday
  • Weekends required
  • Overtime
Apply at Indeed.com  ---- Search for Chamber of Commerce - Louisville



President/CEO - Terch & Associates on behalf of Laurentian Chamber of Commerce - Virginia, MN
Position Summary:
Terch & Associates LLC, on behalf of the Laurentian Chamber of Commerce, is accepting applications to fill the position of President and Chief Executive Officer. This position reports directly to the Laurentian Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors and is based in Virginia, Minnesota.
The Chamber President/CEO is responsible for the coordination of all Chamber activities. The
President/CEO manages and directs all phases of planning to accomplish Chamber objectives.
The President/CEO implements Chamber policies, manages all staff and initiates & supports volunteer activities. The President/CEO will serve as the spokesperson for the Chamber and represent it at all levels of community and government.
This position will have direct supervisory responsibility of 1-3 other paid staff members.
About the Chamber:
The Laurentian Chamber of Commerce represents the Quad Cities of Eveleth, Gilbert, Mountain Iron, and Virginia, Minnesota, as well as surrounding business communities on the Iron Range. The 300 member Chamber plays a key role in community partnerships and is an advocate for business development, retention, and expansion. Our mission is to promote business through education and advocacy to advance the prosperity of the region.
Duties:
In accordance with the Chamber bylaws, policies and procedures, and goals established by the Board of Directors, the President/CEO shall:
  • Guide the development of the Chamber’s overall program of work.
  • Be responsible for directing and implementing the goals and objectives adopted by the Board of Directors, with the aid of staff and volunteers.
  • Recommend policy for consideration by the Board and advise the Board on matters under consideration.
  • Recruit, motivate, and direct volunteers either directly or indirectly with staff assistance.
  • In collaboration with the Board of Directors, plan long term policies to help achieve Chamber goals and ensure that policies adopted by the Board are properly interpreted and implemented.
  • In cooperation with or at the direction of the Board, prepare statements of Chamber position on public issues consistent with adopted policy.
  • Be responsible for the employment of all staff, including hiring and termination, assign duties, be responsible for staff training, supervision of work, management of time, evaluation of performance and the establishment, within the parameters of the annual budget, the terms of their employment.
  • Work in cooperation with the Treasurer and assigned financial staff to manage the organization’s finances, including preparing and recommending a draft budget to be considered by the Board.
  • Direct fundraising activities of the Chamber, and adjust as needed to meet budget goals.
  • Guide staff and volunteers in membership recruitment and retention efforts.
  • Work with Board and staff to meet membership goals.
  • Advise on needs of membership and monitor membership trends and concerns.
  • Advise on dues structures, and work with individual members to establish payment plans when needed
  • Manage or direct management of facility and equipment to meet office needs of the Chamber and staff.
  • Be responsible for the preparation of the agenda, board packets, and implementation of plans and programs of the Board in accordance with established policy.
  • Maintain personal contacts with key community leaders and other stakeholders to assist in meeting Chamber goals.
  • Strive to develop public understanding of the goals and objectives of the organization.
  • Direct the publication of correspondence, including official Chamber publications, print and electronic media, news releases relevant to the functions of the organization.
  • Represent the organization at applicable community meetings.
  • Participate in Chamber activities and educational programs at the state and national levels to attain knowledge that will benefit local Chamber programs.
Required Skills:
  • Strong oral and written communication skills and ability to speak publicly on behalf of the chamber.
  • Ability to manage Chamber staff and volunteers and delegate necessary assignments.
Have an understanding of general business practices, operations and needs.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the Board of
Directors, employees, committees, members, governmental units, civic groups and the general public.
  • Ability to think critically and appraise Chamber proposals and other complex issues.
  • Possess a demonstrated commitment to the vision and mission of the Chamber of Commerce.
Desired Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s Degree
  • At least five (5) years’ experience in a leadership role at a chamber of commerce or other similar civic, community or non-profit organization.
  • Proven success in fundraising and networking within a community.
Salary Requirements:
Based on experience and qualifications.
To Apply:
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by submitting a cover letter, resume, and a list of three professional references no later than 5 PM on March 13, 2020.
Job Type: Full-time


Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance (IL) Engages Search Firm for CEO

The Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance Board of Directors has begun a search for the company’s next President & Chief Executive Officer. Executive search consultant, Waverly Partners, has been retained to lead the search efforts. Dan Dungan, Board Chair and Executive Chairman of Springfield Electric Supply, is heading the search committee that will work with Waverly Partners to identify qualified local, regional and national candidates.

“Our committee has developed a profile identifying the experience and leadership characteristics of our preferred candidate,” Dungan said. “We are open to executives with backgrounds in economic development, chambers of commerce, business associations, nonprofits, private sector or other related experience. Ideally, we’re looking for someone with a commitment to our mission of pursuing economic prosperity and growth for Springfield and Sangamon County.”
The position profile has been posted nationally and is also available on the Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance website, www.ThriveInSPI.org.

For more information about the search, please contact Waverly Partners search consultants, Eric Peterson and Debbie Galbraith, at SSGA@Waverly-Partners.com. All inquiries will be held in confidence.


Aspire Economic Development + Chamber Alliance - VP Economic Development
This position is responsible for leading strategic economic development activity to advance economic and community growth within Johnson County. Collaborates with senior staff and volunteer leadership to develop goals and strategies. Engages staff, partners, and volunteers to advance goals. This position will work closely with new and existing companies seeking to make capital investments and create desirable jobs in Johnson County, managing complex deals involving various forms of public support and shepherding them through the site selection and public incentive process. Leads a staff team to advance community, workforce, and economic development strategies and goals. An engaged member of the staff team, eager for the success of the organization and the local economy.  Click to read more.

Event Manager, Virginia Chamber of Commerce - Richmond, VA - $22 - $28 an hour

The Virginia Chamber of Commerce seeks a full time Event Manager. The Event Manager will report to the Sr. Vice President of Programs for the Virginia Chamber Foundation and will be responsible for managing events for the Virginia Chamber Foundation. The Event Manager may also assist with Virginia Chamber Signature events as needed.

General responsibilities include: manage event and meeting coordination and logistics; assist in program marketing to include social media/website postings, email campaigns, and promotional flyers; coordinate stakeholder and sponsor participation; manage vendor contracts; and assist with event set-up and post-event communications.

Position requirements include: experience as an event manager, coordinator or similar role, meticulous attention to details, ability to work a flexible schedule (some overnight travel required (4-5 nights/year) outside of Richmond) access to reliable transportation, works well independently and under pressure, possess time management skills, be proficient in using standard office equipment and Microsoft Office software, and willingness and aptitude to learn the Chamber’s membership database. Experience with In-Design and Eventbrite is preferred but not required.
The ideal candidate will have a positive attitude, be energetic, enjoy a diverse work day, communicate clearly and professionally, possess outstanding organizational and interpersonal skills, work harmoniously and cooperatively, be able to handle a myriad of details and follow-up items, work independently and with direction, and represent the Chamber in a positive and professional manner at all times in the community.
Minimum of 2 years of experience in the event planning field required. Salary will be based on experience.
Please send introductory letter, resume, and professional references to the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, 919 East Main Street, Suite 900, Richmond, VA 23219, ATTN: Donna Hale, Vice President of Operations and Human Resources, on or before March 27. No phone calls please.

The Virginia Chamber of Commerce is an equal opportunity employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $22.00 to $28.00 /hour

Experience:

  • event management: 2 years (Preferred)

Additional Compensation:

  • Commission
  • Bonuses
Work Location:
  • One location
Benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Retirement plan
  • Paid time off
This Job Is:
  • A job for which military experienced candidates are encouraged to apply
  • A job for which all ages, including older job seekers, are encouraged to apply
  • Open to applicants who do not have a college diploma
Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday


Marketing Coordinator - Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce - Terre Haute, IN


Position Title: Marketing Coordinator
Posting Date: March 5, 2020
Position Type: Full-Time
The Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce is seeking a motivated, energetic and creative individual to join their dynamic team. This person will be primarily responsible for managing all day to day marketing activities of the organization.
Position Overview:
Responsible for graphic design, brand implementation and marketing strategy
Assist in overall growth of organization
Salary based on experience
Specific Responsibilities:
  • Managing multiple brands and creating corresponding marketing strategies
  • Developing marketing strategy in line with organization objectives
  • Identifying key target audiences and creating marketing campaigns specific to each
  • Creating computer graphics, web page graphics, logos, illustrations, advertisements, brochures and many other forms of visual communication
  • Creating and implementing a brand strategy across marketing initiatives and communications
  • Monitor and report on effectiveness of marketing communications
Additional Requirements:
  • Bachelor’s degree in marketing or related field (preferred)
  • Experience in marketing, advertising or graphic design
  • Strong project management skills and creative outlook
To Apply:
For more information and to apply, visit visit www.terrehautechamber.com/careers
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: $30,000.00 to $40,000.00 /hour
Experience:
  • relevant: 2 years (Preferred)
Education:
  • Bachelor's (Preferred)
Work Location:
  • One location
Benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Retirement plan
  • Paid time off
  • Flexible schedule
This Job Is Ideal for Someone Who Is:
  • Dependable -- more reliable than spontaneous
  • Detail-oriented -- would rather focus on the details of work than the bigger picture
  • Innovative -- prefers working in unconventional ways or on tasks that require creativity
Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday
Benefit Conditions:
  • Waiting period may apply
  • Only full-time employees eligible



Financial Specialist/Office Manager - Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce - Sterling, IL - a 5 STAR chamber

This position oversees the daily operations of the Chamber office and provides financial support to the Executive Director and Board of Directors by maintaining accurate and complete financial records for all Chamber business and by providing administrative support to the Executive Director. Position helps fulfill the financial responsibilities related to the overall mission of the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce and provides support to the Chamber Board and Ambassadors as needed to effectively execute Chamber activities.
  • Maintain Financial Books
  • Complete payroll twice each month for all paid employees of the Chamber.
  • Complete and send out monthly invoices and overdue statements to all members. Follow up with chamber members who are overdue in payment of their membership.
  • Complete and send out accounts payable, invoices for events and sponsorships.
  • Collect accounts receivable and post to the correct accounts.
  • Complete and distribute W-2 Tax Forms for employees at year end.
  • File monthly and quarterly tax forms to federal and state government.
  • File year-end Tax Forms along with W-2 Forms to federal and state government.
  • Complete month financial reports Executive Director.
  • Keep accurate accounting of all bank accounts and savings accounts including reconciling at the end of every month.
  • Assist in creation of Annual budget with budget committee.
  • Report to Executive Director and Treasurer any discrepancies or accounting issues.
  • Office Management
  • Maintain Member files; assist in membership recruitment with direction form the Executive Director.
  • Take reservations for upcoming events, maintaining up to date spreadsheets, and helping with event organization.
  • Responsible for electronic communication with membership including Chamber committee meeting reminders, dissemination of weekly Enewsletter, weekly Event Line (advertising blast) and other communications with board, ambassadors and membership as needed. Maintain adblast Log
  • Event Communication: Responsible for Ribbon Cutting, Customer Service Award, and BAH/BBB communication: including planning and follow up after event to media outlets and social media.
  • Responsible for typing and sending out pre-meeting communication and board packets prior to the Executive Board, Board of Directors, and committee monthly meetings. Responsible for maintaining up to date contact list. Responsible for communication with Ambassadors regarding outreach and newsletter information.
  • Assist with completion of mailings for chamber-related events.
  • General Office Duties: answer all incoming phone calls, help visitors and members who come into the chamber, process all bulk mailings, daily mailing, and installing postage machine updates. Maintaining up to date New Resident Packets and Prospective Member Packets. Order and maintain all office supplies.
  • Work with the Marketing and Advertising Manager to maintain up to date website, community calendar, complete monthly newsletter, and other collaboration as needed.
  • Completing various reports for Executive Director as requested.
  • Availability to help manage and execute a chamber event.
Job Type: Full-time
Experience:
  • accounts payable and receivable, knowledge of Quickbooks: 3 years (Preferred)
Location:
  • Sterling, IL 61081 (Preferred)
Work Location:
  • One location
Benefits:
  • Paid time off
  • Flexible schedule
  • Professional development assistance
This Job Is:
  • Open to applicants who do not have a college diploma
Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday

4 Star Chamber - Flint & Genesee Chamber: Grant Specialist


ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

The Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce is the region's premier business membership organization. In addition to providing traditional services for its members, the Flint & Genesee Chamber also serves as the lead economic development agency for Genesee County, operates the area's convention and visitors bureau, and delivers education and training programs to meet the needs of the region's growing workforce. Serving the business community for over 100 years.

DESCRIPTION

The Grants Specialist will support grant research and proposal development for the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce with specific emphasis on the YouthQuest After School Initiative Program. This position will maintain appropriate communications with Program Directors, Directors and other staff. In addition, the Grant Specialist will also provide assistance to Program Director and Finance in rebudgeting, report preparation, and renewals/extension paperwork. Other responsibilities include:
Research and identify new grant opportunities to support the YouthQuest After School Initiative Program elements; research facts and figures that enhance project need statements.
Create proposed grant project budgets, grant writing, proofreading, writing and submitting grant reports.
Grant paperwork tracking and monitoring.
Works with staff to develop programs and proposals, refining internal systems between departments.
May be required to develop fundraising campaigns, events, and activities in coordination with other FGCC departments.
Other duties as assigned.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS
Associate degree in Journalism, Communications, English/English Literature, Education or other related field required; Bachelor’s degree preferred;
Minimum of two years of experience in grant-writing, research and data collection required;
Experience with Microsoft Office required;
Experience with grant management software preferred;
Motivated, self-directed, self-starter with excellent problem- solving skills.
Strong communication skills including verbal and written experience.
Ability to adhere to priorities, meet multiple deadlines and effectively present and explain complex information; strong attention to detail.
Ability to maintain confidentiality.

EOE STATEMENT

We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Full-Time: Flint & Genesee Jobs 



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


Thursday, December 20, 2018

5 Star Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Surpasses $250,000 Fundraising Goal for Its Future Forward Campaign; Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber: Save the dates for these three Forecast Breakfasts!; Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory; WMC/WCCE Washington DC Fly-in Feb. 12-13; Murray Calloway County Chamber Preview: Infrastructure, bail reform among Kentucky chamber’s 2019 priorities; Covington County 2017-2018 Chamber of Commerce Community Map; Virginia Bankers Association/Virginia Chamber Financial Forecast; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.

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

5 Star Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Surpasses $250,000 Fundraising Goal for Its Future Forward Campaign


 The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce (NACC) announced it surpassed their Fundraising goal of $250,000.00 for its Future Forward Campaign.

The NACC launched their Future Forward campaign on January 1, 2018 with the goal of reaching $250,000 by December 31, 2018. This unprecedented campaign was created to update the NACC’s antiquated technology and communication capabilities, and to ensure the Chamber continues to effectively serve the Naperville area business community now and in the future.

“For 112 years the NACC has served as a resource for our business community, and we want to be around for another 112 years. That is why I am so grateful to the generosity of our business community who chose to invest in the future of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce,” said Nicki Anderson, President and CEO of the NACC.

“Prior to this campaign, the technology and communication tools we were using predated the invention of Twitter and Facebook. This campaign is vital to fulfill our mission and attract the next generation of business leaders. As President and CEO, I thank everyone for their support.”

Anita Knotts, Senior Vice President with Calamos Wealth Management, and NACC Board Member understands the impact of updating technology. “A contribution toward Future Forward’s goal of improving technology in the NACC’s work environment is an investment in efficiency, productivity and enhanced communication; which benefits ALL chamber members and the community.”

Over 50 donors contributed to the Future Forward campaign, and these donors represent businesses in Wheaton, Glen Ellyn, Lisle and Naperville. The compilation of donors represents the diversity of the NACC Membership. Small, medium and large businesses contributed to the Future Forward Campaign with an understanding that if the technology and enhanced communication wasn’t updated, the organization and the community would suffer.

One investor, Bill Hayes, the CEO of Esser Hayes Insurance Group, said, “At Esser Hayes we were excited to help the chamber update its technology in order to continue to be great advocates for our business community.”

Doug Gerald, President of Gerald Automotive Group notes, “For over 70 years, the Gerald Family has been dedicated to making a positive change in the lives of others by supporting community and charitable organizations. As a 36-year Member of the Chamber, we know it is an integral part of our community. We believe in the good work they do and stand behind their efforts to keep our businesses and community strong and prosperous.”

Mayor Chirico has been a strong advocate of the Chamber and knows the impact of the success of the organization, “In today's competitive climate, being a forward-thinking community is the difference between success and failure. The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce led the way with their Future Forward campaign. This is not just a tag line or a branding effort...it's a way of thinking and it guides their actions and leads the business community into a prosperous future.”

As Anderson looks to starting her sixth year in 2019 with the Chamber, she knows the importance of this initiative. “I’m very proud of our success and raising these funds, but we had no choice. Businesses are very different today than they were 10 years ago. We must continue to be a relevant, innovative source for them. If our business community continues to thrive, so will our community. That’s a win-win.”

The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce is the largest suburban Chamber in Illinois with an active membership of 1,200 organizations of every size and from every sector. The NACC promotes economic growth and advocacy in and around the Naperville area. For its efforts in promoting free enterprise and the business community, the Chamber has been recognized with 5-Star Accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, an honor bestowed on only 1 percent of Chambers, out of the nearly 7,000 in the nation. Visit www.naperville.net



Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber: Save the dates for these three Forecast Breakfasts!


Thank you for taking the time to read our weekly E-Newsletter! We hope you enjoy our new "Members in the News" section. Feel free to submit you news to us via our website at www.bbcc.com.

We're excited for 2019 and the programs, events and activities we have planned to assist our members in achieving their goals for the year. Let us know how we can assist you in reaching those goals!

Save the following dates for our upcoming forecast series.
  • Jan 11, 2019 - Economic Forecast Breakfast 
  • Feb 22, 2019 - Real Estate Forecast Breakfast
  • March 22, 2019 - Healthcare Forecast Breakfast

We are actively seeking sponsors for these events. If you are interested, see the information below for details or contact Kelly Bennett at kellyb@bbcc.com.

In Good Business,

The BBChamber Staff



Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory  

The Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Guide & Business Directory   is available at the Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to Krisann Durnford and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together! 






Town Square Publications  (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.

WMC/WCCE Washington DC Fly-in Feb. 12-13



Please mark your calendar for the 2019 WMC/WCCE Washington DC Fly-In for Wisconsin business and chamber of commerce leaders. The event, to be held February 12-13, is a great opportunity to discuss federal policies that directly and indirectly influence our local and state economies, like tax reform, regulatory relief, energy, health care, infrastructure investment, trade and immigration. WMC will arrange meetings, provide transportation to Capitol Hill, and host the Wisconsin Chamber Night Reception and Dinner on February 12. WMC plans to arrange briefings with the White House, the US Chamber of Commerce, National Association of Manufacturers, and every member of the Wisconsin Congressional Delegation. This event will be exclusive to WMC and WCCE members. Please contact Susan Nyffenegger at snyffenegger@wmc.org to register!




Indiana Chamber lays out legislative agenda

Ranked among the Indiana Chamber of Commerce's legislative priorities is just what you would expect – fighting for increased workforce development funds and reducing business personal property taxes.
But there are other items that might not fit a traditional business focus – raising the age to buy cigarettes in Indiana, accelerating when the superintendent of public instruction becomes an appointed post.
And the big one – supporting a hate crimes law.
“A lot of business owners – especially small-business owners – would prefer they stick to business and economic issues. It has given the impression to some they are for big government,” said Micah Clark, executive director of the American Family Association of Indiana. “Many people are scratching their heads as to why they are going off course so much.”
But Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Kevin Brinegar bristles at the idea his organization has strayed outside its lane.
“All of these things we get involved in is because it has an economic impact and jobs connection,” he said. “The Indiana Chamber of Commerce has indeed been a driving force in making Indiana one of the best places to grow jobs and raise families and one of the best business climates in the country.”
Going back to 2012 when its Vision 2025 plan was created, the Indiana Chamber of Commerce has pushed agenda items that go beyond taxes and regulatory framework for its nearly 25,000 members.
And it has had mixed success.
Andrew Downs, head of the Mike Downs Center for Indiana Politics at Purdue University Fort Wayne, said he noticed the phenomenon when the chamber became immersed in K-12 education issues.
“The overall logic is one that is sound – a good workforce is necessary for prosperity and growth, therefore the chamber should care about education,” he said.
The chamber has pushed for an appointed education chief for years. It is finally set to happen in 2025, but the chamber wants lawmakers to move that date up to 2021.
Brinegar said businesses pay more than half of the funds that go to K-12 education, and ultimately are the end users of the product – students – so their interest in a solid education system makes sense.
He also noted the chamber has pushed for the reduction of township government and fewer elected officials in general to help reduce government spending – and as a result lower taxes paid by businesses.
Brinegar said some people have asked why the chamber is involved in social issues. But he said it has only been in reaction to problems.
The chamber, for example, stayed out of the fight over same-sex marriage. But once the state Religious Freedom Restoration Act threw Indiana into the national spotlight and threatened jobs, the chamber stepped in to support a fix.
That clash led to the chamber supporting civil protections against discrimination for gay, lesbian and transgender Hoosiers in 2016 – though it didn't pass the Republican legislature.
“It's about our outward message and image,” Brinegar said.
Hate crimes legislation falls in the same category as Indiana is one of only five states without an explicit bias crime statute. And with a lack of skilled workers, Indiana businesses need to be able to attract talent here and feel welcome, Brinegar said. Read more: Ft. Wayne Journal Gazette


Murray Calloway County Chamber Preview: Infrastructure, bail reform among Kentucky chamber’s 2019 priorities

Representatives of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce met with local chamber members in Murray Friday morning to discuss priorities for the upcoming legislative session in Frankfort.
Kentucky Chamber President and CEO Dave Adkisson was present, along with Senior Vice President of Membership and Development Kelly Wolf and Amy Cloud, executive director for the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives.
Murray-Calloway County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Michelle Bundren welcomed attendees and outlined some of the local chamber’s hopes for the 2019 General Assembly before introducing Adkisson. Bundren said Thursday’s news that $23 million would be awarded to Calloway County through the federal Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) program in order to widen U.S. 641 South was a big win for Murray and Calloway County.
Bundren said the local chamber board was also happy to see the Tennessee Valley Authority in-lieu-of tax bill pass in Kentucky’s last legislative session, and members are hoping to see that money used for local economic development soon. Moving forward, the chamber wants to support Murray State University in any way they can, and they also support Gov. Matt Bevin’s Red Tape Initiative to eliminate more regulations for businesses.
Bundren said the chamber also wants to continue to support the Agriculture Development Fund and to promote industrial hemp as much as possible. She also mentioned that the chamber was lobbying to have non-profit organizations exempt from Kentucky’s recently enacted sales tax on services.
Citing a cold and a hoarse throat, Adkisson let Wolf do most of the talking Friday’s breakfast at the Marriott SpringHill Suites. Wolf talked about some chamber priorities that had been achieved in Kentucky since Republicans won a majority in the House of Representatives in 2016. In the 2017 session, the General Assembly passed right-to-work legislation and repealed the prevailing wage law. It also created medical review panels, voted to allow charter schools and to require “pension system transparency,” Wolf noted.
For 2018, Wolf highlighted the passage of pension reform and a tax reform law that moved Kentucky from the 39th best business tax climate in the country to 23rd, according to the Tax Foundation’s 2019 State Business Tax Climate Index. She said the legislature also passed a worker’s compensation law that will save businesses around 10 percent, as well as a law seeking to ensure that Kentucky students learn about “essential employment skills.” Also known as “soft skills,” they include showing up for work on time, dressing properly for interviews and for work, passing a drug test and working well in teams, among other attributes. Medical peer review was also passed this year, she said. Read more: Murray Ledger & Times

Take a look at $570 million in changes at the Port of Gulfport

It’s been in the works since 2007 and now the $570 million restoration and expansion of the Port of Gulfport is complete.

A ribbon cutting and open house to mark the end of Phase I begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 1, outside in the north harbor of the port. After the speeches, free public tours of the port and the new USM Marine Research Center will be offered for all ages.

The tours will pass three massive gantry cranes that cost $10 million each and had to be brought from China since no American manufacturer makes them, said Jonathan Daniels, executive director of the port. They ultimately were responsible for Chiquita’s return to the port, he said.

The 31 projects, completed by 1,700 construction workers, came in $41 million under budget, Daniels said and were completed while the port was operating.

The north harbor and west side of the port were rebuilt at a cost of about $400 million. All of the tenant locations were expanded and 300,000 square feet of warehouse space was built, including 21,000 of chilled space.

Gulfport is the second largest green fruit port in the U.S., he said, and cargo unloaded in Gulfport travel by rail and truck as far east as Charleston, South Carolina, as far north as Chicago and as far west as Southern California.

It’s also one of 17 strategic ports in the U.S. authorized to handle military cargo.

“It’s a very different port than it was,” Daniels said. When he came to work at the port in June 2013, the restoration and expansion project was at about the half-way mark.

He was warned not to take the job, he said, was told Gulfport can’t compete with other ports in the Gulf of Mexico and that the feds were threatening to take the project away, Daniels said.

By then the port was elevated to 14 feet to safeguard it from future storm surges. In 2014, nine years after Hurricane Katrina and seven years after the project was obligated by Congress, construction was ready to begin.

What a difference cranes make

The rail-mounted gantry cranes arrived in 2016 and Daniels said “The cranes were absolutely critical,” to the return of Chiquita to Gulfport. The company that imports bananas left Gulfport for the Port of New Orleans. It returned two years later with a 40-year lease, and now is able to bring in ships that carry twice the amount of cargo into Gulfport, he said.

Before that the longest lease was 3 to 4 years, Daniels said. Now the shortest is 15 years. Crowley has options to extend that 15-year lease to 30, he said. Dole has a 23-year lease, McDermott 40 years, Island View Casino 50 years and Chemours, which expanded its operations by 82 percent and invested in new silos at the port, has a 60-year lease.

The port is much more diverse now, he said, and the reliance on revenue from the casino dropped from 57 percent to 32 percent this last year, he said, Read more: MEDC

Covington County 2017-2018 Chamber of Commerce Community Map 

The Covington County Chamber of Commerce Community Map is available at the Covington County Chamber today! Thanks to Marie Shoemake and her team for their help and direction putting this together!



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



Virginia Bankers Association/Virginia Chamber Financial Forecast

Details
The 2019 Financial Forecast will take place on January 10 from noon - 2:00 p.m. at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, bringing industry leaders together to discuss the economic future of our Commonwealth.

Economic forecasting has become an essential component to remaining successful and profitable in today's economic environment. The Virginia Bankers Association and the Virginia Chamber of Commerce share a desire to help prepare Virginia's business community for what lies ahead for Virginia's economy and the national economy.

2019 Financial Forecast Speakers
Ángel Cabrera, President, George Mason University
James E. Glassman, JPMorgan Chase & Co. | Chase Commercial Banking

Interested in Sponsoring?
Learn more about the sponsorship levels here. Contact Kristen Reid at kreid@vabankers.org to sponsor.
Individual Ticket Purchase
Individual tickets can be purchased for $75 here. More Information: Virginia Chamber



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