Why Milwaukee? Why now?

Meet Robert Recker, MMAC's new Senior Vice President and M7 Chief Development Officer

I have been asked these two questions frequently by colleagues, chamber peers, family and friends during my transition to the Cream City, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. As I was packing up in Memphis, the world was rotating in its normal orbit -- except for an unknown virus that was emerging in China. At the time, there was little concern of its spread to the shores of this country. I was eagerly looking forward to relocating to a new city that I had some familiarity with, but only on the surface.

For chamber nomads like me – we’re a small minority in the profession, as most chamber professionals are from their city or region where they work - the lure and appeal of working and living in a new city adds to the reasons why I chose my profession. I’ve been fortunate during my 30-year career to work in senior executive positions at many metro chambers. I’ve also represented the U.S. as Vice Chairman of the Paris-based World Chamber Federation, a world forum uniting the global network of 12,000 chambers and their respective business communities. It has been a privilege to be able join the dynamic MMAC team.

While each city and chamber have its distinctive features, the foundational work for chambers is the same in every market – ensure long-term prosperity for all through capital investment, job creation and sound public policy creating an environment for businesses to thrive and prosper.

So why Milwaukee?

MMAC has always been a beacon of excellence in the chamber industry sector and that light has never shined brighter when I see chambers around the country emulating MMAC strategic initiatives or public policy priorities in their respective communities. The foundation for MMAC’s impact in the region is strong volunteer leadership and a dynamic team of chamber professionals who are passionate about their city and region all working together on behalf of the business community, their employees and families.

Fiercely proud and loyal are not traits you can teach -- it’s in the DNA of each of my colleagues and I am excited to contribute my talents, skills and experience to support our members’ businesses and contribute to the growth of the region. Membership is the foundation for MMAC and without our members, the organization can’t impact the critical issues facing the business community.

So why now?

Milwaukee, like other cities where I’ve worked -- Cleveland and Memphis in particular -- has always punched above its weight. The momentum we’re experiencing today started many years ago through the heavy lifting of MMAC, Milwaukee 7, Milwaukee Development Corporation and the chamber’s strategic partners. Now is the time to keep punching and to keep the momentum going.

Sincerely, Robert Recker

414/287-4177