What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership is having a vision and turning it into a reality no matter how difficult or challenging. It is doing what’s right for the greater good and surrounding yourself with individuals that have the same drive and vision to collectively foster change and impact the future.

Who has influenced your idea of leadership?

My Chamber Board of Directors are daily examples of strong leadership. They are a dedicated group from all different backgrounds and levels of leadership. They have come together collectively to support change and move our community to the next level. I am grateful to have their support, expertise, and perspective.

I am a mother of two little girls, 18 months and 3 ½ years. When I look at my daughters, I only want the best for them. My husband, Troy, and I want them to grow up to be their best selves – intelligent and independent future leaders.

I do my best to balance taking care of my family, my work responsibilities and my health. I love what I do at the Chamber, and the endless challenges that come with my position.

Why do we need more women in leadership roles? What do they add to the table?

Women bring a different perspective to the workforce leadership roles. It has been said that “women don’t forget anything”. A woman will use past experiences to learn from mistakes, makes changes and make future decisions even better.

Many women are multi-taskers, in part to juggling family and career every day. This is an extremely valuable skill to an organization or business.

Women are resilient. We have tremendous dedication to work extra hard to get to the top. Most of the time, we have to prove we can be in the leadership roles. The best thing we as women can do is to support and empower one another.

How are you leading in your career/community?

It has been an exciting and challenging venture, but as the President of an organization, I am proud to be on the forefront continuing to push the boundaries. The Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce has taken a lead role in economic development for our community.

We are leading our community by empowering leaders every day, and are in our fourth year of the Manistee Area Leadership Program, building leaders for the future.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Manistee is on the verge of tremendous opportunities for our community. Change can be difficult to many, but that is when we need to support those pushing for these changes. Together, we can make a difference.

What is the best way for someone to contact you?

The best way to reach me is at the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce, 231-723-2575 or email stacie@manisteechamber.com or my linkedIn account Stacie Stachowiz Bytwork.