New NKY Chamber chair to facilitate solutions, growth

The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce named Gary Beatrice its new Chairman of the Board on August 28.

“Gary has been actively engaged and serving in leadership positions in our organization for more than 16 years. He has a strong interest in the continued economic recovery of our region and brings a wealth of experience to one of the highest priority areas of our members - healthcare,”
said Steve Stevens, president of the Northern Kentucky Chamber.

Beatrice is president of Ft. Mitchell-based Business Benefits, a consultancy that helps local employers secure cost-effective group insurance plans. For the past 15 years, he’s advised Kentucky government and business leaders on health insurance and healthcare reform. But sustainable benefits are just one aspect of Beatrice’s vision for the Northern Kentucky Chamber.

“I see the Chamber fulfilling the role of problem solver in the business community. That seems appropriate in light of today’s economic environment,” said Beatrice. The three priorities he has set for the Northern Kentucky Chamber stem from organic needs he has observed.

“First, we should be a resource for entrepreneurs. We have a board member who recently started a business, and knew his field, but still needed help with licensure and equipment.” Beatrice would like to see the Chamber build its reputation as a hub for practical resources. His plans also include a summit on innovative opportunities in Northern Kentucky, and resources targeted to the needs of women entrepreneurs.

Beatrice recognizes the critical role of passion in getting things done. “A few years ago, the Chamber was part of a Northern Kentucky Education Summit, and many of those projects are still active today.” He looks forward to collaborating with regional organizations on both sides of the river toward common goals: growth, jobs, and business solutions.

Writer: Elena Stevenson
Source: Gary Beatrice, Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, www.businessbenefits.com