New Executive Director of Partnership for Rhode Island

News Summary

Rhode Island has appointed Elizabeth Catucci as the new executive director of the Partnership for Rhode Island. Transitioning from her role as the Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce’s president and CEO, she will officially take the position in early September. Catucci’s focus will be on business attraction, workforce development, education, and infrastructure improvements while continuing the organization’s commitment to economic growth and support for local businesses.

Rhode Island Appoints Elizabeth Catucci as New Executive Director of the Partnership for Rhode Island

Rhode Island has announced the appointment of Elizabeth Catucci as the new executive director of the Partnership for Rhode Island. Catucci, who is transitioning from her role as president and CEO of the Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce, will officially take on her new position in early September. This announcement was made on July 16, marking a significant change in leadership for the organization.

Leadership Transition

Catucci succeeds Thomas Giordano, the founding executive director of the Partnership, who held the position with an annual salary of $273,231 along with $35,932 in additional compensation in 2023. Under Giordano’s leadership, the Partnership focused on serving as a key advocate for the state’s largest employers and enhancing business opportunities in Rhode Island.

Partnership Goals and Focus

As the new executive director, Catucci will prioritize four main areas: business attraction, workforce development, education, and infrastructure improvements. She will lead the Partnership for Rhode Island, which operates as a nonprofit CEO roundtable consisting of the state’s largest employers including notable companies such as Amica, Bank of America, Brown University, CVS Health, Blue Cross & Blue Shield, and Lifespan.

Commitment to Economic Growth

Catucci has expressed her intent to strengthen the Rhode Island economy by focusing on the collective capabilities of Partnership members, who employ tens of thousands of individuals within the state. The Partnership has a history of supporting initiatives like the “CompeteRI” program, which has been instrumental in providing assistance for grant writing and securing federal funding for local projects.

Significant Achievements

The success of the CompeteRI program is noteworthy, particularly its achievement in obtaining a $17 million grant designated for improvements to Bristol’s Mount Hope Bridge. This initiative underscores the Partnership’s commitment to supporting infrastructure projects critical to the state’s transportation network.

Strategic Direction Under Catucci

In her new role, Catucci is expected to steer the Partnership’s strategy towards enhanced involvement in business development and recruitment efforts within Rhode Island. As federal funding opportunities begin to wane, the Partnership aims to pivot towards a more active advocacy role focused on addressing business challenges at the State House. This emphasis comes at a crucial time as economic dynamics shift and local businesses seek to adapt to changing landscapes.

Political and Business Connections

With established relationships among political and business leaders, including Governor Dan McKee and members of the General Assembly, Catucci is viewed as a respected figure capable of navigating the complex landscape of Rhode Island’s economic development. This respect may bolster the Partnership’s initiatives and campaigns for legislative support.

Background of the Partnership

The Partnership for Rhode Island is recognized as a major player among the state’s economic development entities, focusing on fostering collaborative relationships and facilitating discussions among top executives from various industries. With its robust membership base composed of influential organizations, the Partnership is positioned to make substantial contributions to Rhode Island’s ongoing economic transformation.

As Elizabeth Catucci prepares to embark on this new journey as executive director, expectations are high for her leadership to drive the Partnership’s goals forward, enhancing the economic landscape and improving opportunities for businesses and residents alike in Rhode Island.

Elizabeth Catucci Appointed Executive Director of Partnership for Rhode Island