News Summary
Liz Catucci has been named the new executive director of the Partnership for Rhode Island, succeeding Thomas Giordano. Catucci, who previously led the Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce, will focus on business attraction and advocacy in workforce development, education, and infrastructure. Her appointment is expected to enhance the organization’s impact on Rhode Island’s economy and foster collaboration among major employers, as community stakeholders look forward to her leadership in addressing key business challenges.
Rhode Island — Liz Catucci has been appointed as the new executive director of the Partnership for Rhode Island, effective early September. This announcement was made on July 16. Catucci, who has spent the last six years leading the Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce, succeeds Thomas Giordano in this role. Giordano earned an annual salary of $273,231, in addition to $35,932 in extra compensation during 2023.
The Partnership for Rhode Island is a nonprofit organization that serves as a CEO roundtable consisting of some of the state’s largest employers. Its membership includes key organizations such as Amica, Bank of America, Brown University, CVS Health, Blue Cross & Blue Shield, Citizens, and Lifespan, portraying the organization as a significant player in the state’s economic landscape.
Catucci’s new responsibilities will primarily focus on business attraction, as well as advocating for pressing issues in workforce development, education, and infrastructure improvements across Rhode Island. Her appointment comes after a comprehensive search conducted by the Partnership’s board, which sought a candidate equipped to build on the organization’s established foundation.
John Fernandez, the Partnership Board Chairman, highlighted Catucci’s reputation as an effective advocate and voice for the business community in Rhode Island. Her extensive experience and strong connections within both the political and business sectors of the state are expected to be beneficial as she transitions into her new role. Catucci is recognized for her collaborative approach and her ability to facilitate dialogue among various stakeholders.
The Partnership for Rhode Island has significantly influenced important policy initiatives in the state, such as funding a crucial study that led to the state takeover of Providence schools. Furthermore, it has played a vital role as the lead funder for the CompeteRI program, which has successfully secured over $700 million in federal grants aimed at supporting the state’s needs. Moving forward, as federal funding becomes less accessible, the organization intends to shift its focus more toward business development and recruitment strategies.
Catucci’s tenure at the Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce provided her with insights and experiences that will likely serve her well in her upcoming position. Her effective leadership at the Chamber has established her as a credible figure among business leaders in the region, which is projected to facilitate her agenda at the Partnership for Rhode Island.
As the executive director, one of her objectives will be to enhance the Partnership’s impact on Rhode Island’s economy and ensure that it continues to advocate for the interests of its members in legislative discussions. The organization’s role as a collaborative entity among major employers in the state will be key to addressing upcoming challenges and opportunities in the business sector.
Liz Catucci’s appointment marks a significant transition for the Partnership for Rhode Island, and stakeholders within the community are hopeful that her leadership will further the organization’s mission to improve business opportunities and foster a conducive environment for economic growth throughout the state.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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