Rachel Gorman, MBA

Experience

• 

  Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce

  Aug 2013 - Jul 2017

  Orchestrated a broad portfolio of over 30 successful Chamber events annually, such as Business for Breakfast, Business After Hours, Business Briefings, Chamber Classic Golf Outing, Entrepreneur Award Luncheon, Member Celebrations, and New Member Orientations.Drove impactful advocacy efforts and guided the Chamber's Government Affairs Committee, successfully representing diverse membership interests in Lansing and Washington, DC, while collaborating with local partners including the West Michigan Chamber Coalition and Great Lakes Metro Chamber Coalition. Served as an effective Chamber representative, bringing valuable insights and perspectives to several critical committees and initiatives, including the Connect Michigan Broadband Assessment Team, Muskegon County Airport Advisory Committee, and Muskegon Port Advisory Committee. Coordinated meetings and facilitated partnerships between Muskegon Manufacturers in the Port City and Norton Shores Industrial Park, driving collaboration and promoting economic growth across the region. Additionally, contributed to the success of the Muskegon County Silent Observer Committee by providing support and understanding, helping to improve public safety and build stronger community partnerships.Chamber Milestones while on staff: Watch Muskegon Image Campaign, MACP Chamber of the Year, ACCE Chamber of the Year Finalist. Show less

  • Advocacy and Events Coordinator

    Aug 2014 - Jul 2017

  • Community Information Specialist

    Oct 2013 - Aug 2014

  • Communication and Events Intern

    Aug 2013 - Nov 2013
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  Muskegon Community College

  Jul 2017 - Sept 2021

  Alumni and Donor Relations Manager

  Devised and implemented impactful alumni engagement tactics for Muskegon Community College by spearheading communication and event planning initiatives, including the production and dissemination of Reflections Magazine to 20,000 households, organization of the Annual Alumni Award Recognitions, and preparation of the Foundation for Muskegon Community College’s Annual Report.

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  Pioneer Resources, Inc.

  Aug 2021 - Jul 2023

  Director Of Development

  Led the development and implementation of a successful corporate partnership program, while prioritizing grant opportunities, resulting in a 20% year-over-year increase in annual revenue.Execute the implementation of a comprehensive Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) program, including trainings, policies, and initiative that fosters a more inclusive and equitable work environment for all employees.Developed and nurtured strategic relationships with key stakeholders, community leaders, and industry partners to enhance the organization's visibility and reputation, resulting in increased collaboration and support for community initiatives.Successfully grew annual attendance and revenue for Pioneer Resources’ signature event, Hats and Horses, by 25% through strategic planning, community outreach, and sponsor cultivation. Show less

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  City of Muskegon

  Nov 2021 - now

  Commissioner At-Large

  Serve as an effective liaison between citizens, staff, business owners, and other community stakeholders in the development of policies and initiatives to address critical issues such as economic development, infrastructure, and public safety, resulting in positive outcomes for Muskegon.Exercise sound financial stewardship of taxpayer funds through a detail-oriented review and approval of the City's $104 million budget.Diligently supervise and direct city staff, providing effective leadership, guidance, and support to ensure their professional growth and development, while fostering a positive and inclusive work environment. Show less

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  Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce

  Jul 2023 - now

  • President and CEO

    Oct 2024 - now

  • Chief Operating Officer

    Jul 2023 - Oct 2024