Business & Tech

Chamber Appoints Jody Sullivan As Permanent Executive Director

The Newport County Chamber of Commerce announced the permanent appointment Tuesday morning.

It’s official—Jody Sullivan will continue to lead the

The Chamber made the announcement Tuesday in a prepared statement, solidifying Sullivan’s role after she served in the position as the interim executive director for the last year.

“It’s an honor and a privilege to continue the Chamber’s work on behalf of Chamber members, county businesses, and the community at large,” Sullivan said in a prepared statement. “I look forward to continuing the future success of the Chamber.”

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The Chamber of Commerce's Board of Directors voted unanimously to approve Sullivan’s permanent appointment after Governor Lincoln Chafee reappointed Sullivan's predecessor Keith Stokes to serve as executive director of the Economic Development Corporation in January earlier this year, according to the Chamber’s news release.

“I would like to extend a huge congratulations to my friend and colleague Jody Sullivan,” said Keith Stokes, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation. “Having worked closely with her for years, I know that her experience, knowledge and passion for Newport County will help her with the continued success she’s already had in this role.”

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"Jody Sullivan has provided outstanding leadership to the Chamber during her tenure as interim executive director, and we now look forward to her continuing guidance as the permanent executive director,” Chamber Board of Directors Chairman Eric Offenberg said. “Her knowledge of the local business community and her commitment to our 1,100 members, as well as her talented staff, will guarantee that the Chamber continues to be one of the most relevant business organizations in the state."

Sullivan started working with the Newport County Chamber of Commerce in 1994 and stepped into the role of deputy director in 2003, according to the news release. She has owned and operated several small businesses, received a Masters Degree in Management from Salve Regina University in 2003 and is knowledgeable with Chamber budgeting and operations.

Chamber officials credited her with the development of successful initiatives and programs such as the Chamber’s “Buy Local” campaign, its member-to-member discount and gift certificate programs, and its corporate sponsorship program.


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