Events and Programs

Connecting Executives...Creating Success

Since 1987, thousands of business owners, CEOs and top executives and managers have participated in various roundtables to discuss issues of vital interest to their businesses. Participants build on the tremendous knowledge base that already exists in the West Michigan business community and are able to tap into the knowledge and experience of their peers. The program is so rewarding that the majority of all participants rejoin year after year.

The CEO Roundtable program provides structured discussion groups of 10-13 business executives. The same group of participants gather each month in a confidential setting to discuss issues affecting their businesses.

We have two tracks of Roundtables:

First Track - CEO Roundtable Program (for CEO, President, Managing Partner, Owner):
Original (mix of industries)
Family-Owned (must be part of family)
Non-profit (limited to Executive Directors of non-profit organizations)
Manufacturing 

Second Track - Management Roundtables that are geared to the next level executive:
Sales (limited to VPs of Sales and Sales Managers)
Marketing (limited to VP of Marketing and Marketing Managers)
Finance / Accounting (limited to CFOs, VPs of Finance, or Treasurer) 
Leadership Development Table (limited to COOs, VPs)

Click here to view the Spring Enrollment Letter!

Click here to download the new 2012 Brochure

How do I enroll?

Fill out the brochure from the link above and submit to the Chamber. Enrollment is ongoing, but new participants are placed twice a year, in the Fall and Spring.

Applications are currently being accepted through March 9, 2012 for the Spring session. Priority will be given in the order the application is received. The cost of participation is $60 for one year and payment will be processed upon placement.

CEO Roundtable Program Articles & Resources

Here are a few mentions of the CEO Roundtable Program:

Insight Article 04.06.10
Grand Rapids Business Journal Article 03.09.09
Rapid Growth Article 08.16.07

Resources for Participants:
Participant Handbook - updated Spring 2010 - version 2.0

What are participants saying about the program?
"I am overwhelmed with the ideas that are presented at a CEO Roundtable. Problem solving tactics are shared amongst the group, which adds to every ones good judgment decisions. All businesses that are looking for success along with friendship will be one-step closer to reaching their goals by attending. The rewards are outstanding and that is why I am excited to continue supporting the Grand Rapids Chamber on this program."
Fritz Wahlfield Jr., CEO & President, Fritz Wahlfield Construction Co.

"I am amazed how directly my participation in the Chamber's CEO Roundtable has impacted the growth of my company! The ability to access the knowledge banks of the successful business leaders in my group is priceless. This program is incredible and something I wouldn't even consider living without!"
Pete Brand, Mindscape at Hanon McKendry

"This is my fourth year participating in the CEO Roundtable program and second year as facilitator. I got so many benefits out of the program my first three years that I signed up for a second roundtable this year! I am continually amazed at the collective insight that is shared in our groups and feel that the CEO Roundtable program is one of the Grand Rapids business community's hidden gems."
Chris Atwater, Waters Tenant Representation LLC

For more information regarding this program, please contact Wes Trimpe at 616.771.0342.