As Vice President, Jo Newell, who is the first female African American to lead the Chamber, will focus on preparing and empowering businesses through robust, future-focused programming that accelerates growth and economic recovery.
Orlando, Fla. – The Orlando Economic Partnership (the Partnership) announces the promotion of Josann (Jo) Newell as the new Vice President of the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce (the Chamber), a core component of the Partnership. Newell, who is the first female African American to lead the Chamber, will focus on preparing and empowering businesses through robust, future-focused programming that accelerates growth and economic recovery.
Effective immediately, Newell will manage the strategic and operational goals of the Chamber. Previously, Newell served as Director of Programs and Strategic Initiatives and then as interim Vice President for the Chamber, leading a team in creating innovative programs that provide resources and opportunities for small businesses, women and young professionals in the Orlando region. In her prior roles, she worked to launch All Women Empowered, a task force comprised of private, public and nonprofit partners working to unify community resources into a strategically coordinated campaign to propel women forward.
“Jo Newell is a proven leader and the right person to continue to help advance the goals of the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce,” said Tim Giuliani, president and CEO of the Partnership.
“Her mix of passion, focus and expertise are the right ingredients to help businesses navigate the current challenges small businesses face to achieve economic recovery and growth.”
Tim Giuliani, President and CEO of the Orlando Economic Partnership
“Newell’s background and strategic vision will be critical to connecting and building our business community so that it can grow and thrive, ultimately generating jobs and boosting our region’s economic potential,” said Wendy Kurtz, APR, CPRC, founder and president of Elizabeth Charles & Associates and Board chair of the Chamber.
Newell also lends her leadership talents to community organizations including Orange County MWBE Committee and Central Florida Commission on Homelessness and served as the previous Chair of From Outside In, a nonprofit organization working to provide free gently used clothing to youth in need.
For more information, please contact Laureen.Martinez@orlando.org or at 407-242-3982.
About the Orlando Regional Chamber
The Orlando Regional Chamber, a core component of the Orlando Economic Partnership, serves a critical role in the region by preparing and empowering businesses through robust, future-focused programming that accelerates growth. For more information, visit OrlandoChamber.org
