From news release
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — Caitlin Pusateri has been named the new president of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
Pusateri, who has been with the chamber for more than a decade, previously served as executive vice president.
In her new role, she will lead the chamber’s strategic initiatives, create and oversee regional connections and manage the day-to-day operations of the chamber.
“I’m thrilled to continue my work advocating for the businesses that help build up our thriving local economy and diverse community,” Pusateri said in a news release. “A strong business environment allows for a vibrant, healthy, and forward-thinking community. With our mission to ‘Lead Business Growth’ as my North Star, I am committed to serve our members, advocate on their behalf, and ensure the Rockford region is good for their prosperity.”
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The Rockford Chamber of Commerce, which has more than 1,000 members, advocates for business-friendly public policy related to public education, crime and safety.
The chamber is one of the partner organizations under the Greater Rockford Growth Partnership, a nonprofit umbrella organization designed to align the efforts of the chamber and the Rockford Area Economic Development Council.
“I’ve worked with Caitlin for more than 12 years and have seen firsthand her leadership and impact she has on our community. She’s extremely qualified to take the reins and continue building upon the bright legacy she’s been so much a part of so far,” Einar Forsman, CEO of GRGP, said in a news release. “Her experience with our organization and her dedication to our community will set herself – and our region – up for success. The future is bright under her leadership.”
Pusateri began working for the chamber as the executive director of Ignite, a young professionals group, in 2010 and has worked for the chamber in some capacity ever since. She became vice president of leadership development in October 201 and executive vice president in 2021.
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Last year, Pusateri completed four years of the U.S. chamber’s Institute of Organization Management, a program designed to enhance individual performance, elevate professional standards, and recognize chamber of commerce professionals who demonstrate the knowledge essential to nonprofit management.
She also completed the ACCE Fellowship for Economic Recovery, a selective 10-month virtual cohort program of 45 chamber professionals from across the country that explores timely theories and best practices.
“Caitlin is not only recognized locally as a change-maker, influencer for good culture, and leader, but she’s also received recognition on a national level,” said Dan Ross, chairman of the chamber’s board of directors. “She is someone we can rely on at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce and we are so thankful for her continued commitment to excellence.”
The Byron native has also has worked for The Arthritis Foundation, Rockford University and Blackhawk Bank. She completed her master’s degree in organizational leadership with an emphasis in training and development at Lewis University. She holds a bachelor’s degree in music and business from Illinois Wesleyan University.
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Pusateri sits on the boards for the Illinois Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives and the Discovery Center Museum. She previously held board or committee roles on the River District Association, Club Blue, Rockford Leaders, and the YWCA Leader Luncheon.
Both the chamber and the development council brought on new leaders in the past six months. Therese Thill was named president of the RAEDC in late 2021.
“The economic and business oversight in our region is in good hands with two talented individuals,” Forsman said. “It’s a pivotal time for Rockford and I have no doubt their partnership and collaboration will spark unity, innovation, and opportunity for the region.”