The Benzie County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has announced Michelle Barefoot as the Chamber Director.
Barefoot joined the Chamber in May 2020 as Operations Manager. She transitioned from her 28 years in the Retail Sector holding many positions, but most recently as the Senior Buyer and Bookkeeper at Labadie’s Summer Place Casuals.
The Chamber says Barefoot’s experience in many areas of the retail industry gives her a “strong backbone in how to run a business.”
Additionally, they say Barefoot has held many managerial positions, marketing and merchandising, as well as supply chain, which gives her a “well-rounded background to understand the business community in our area.”
Barefoot was born and raised in Southeastern Michigan, and spent a lot of time in Northwestern Michigan. She relocated to the area in 2012 after being hired by Labadie’s.
The Chamber says that Barefoot’s relocation experience resonates with many issues in the area, including workforce housing and childcare. They state, “Her passion for these and other issues in the community gives the Benzie Area Chamber of Commerce a loud voice with community leaders in hopes to Build a Better Benzie.”
Since taking over at the Chamber, Barefoot has successfully reinstituted many business events, including the After Hours networking event which is now called “Off the Clock.”
The Chamber states that Barefoot has been, “instrumental in the retention and renewal of several members as has enhanced Chamber marketing.”
Additionally, they say Barefoot has made impressive updates to the Chamber’s existing website, including new pages and new ways for businesses to promote themselves as well as connect with potential customers.
According to the Chamber, Barefoot is an avid outdoor enthusiast who can be found on the slopes of Crystal Mountain in the winter as a Certified Alpine and Certified Telemark ski instructor. On the other hand, during the summer, Barefoot can be found on a trail or kayaking.
Furthermore, the Chamber says Barefoot is also a dedicated music fan, specifically local Michigan music, and can be found supporting Michigan artists in-person or on social media.
“The Chamber has benefitted from Michelle’s dedication and hard work for well over a year,” said Steve Campbell, Acting President of the Board. “We were excited she accepted the position, and we are looking forward to an active Chamber director who will work for the area businesses, as well as the community as a whole. The Chamber is entering a new phase and we are enthusiastic with the direction Michelle is taking us.”
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