The Burlington Business Association (BBA) is pleased to announce the promotion of Russ Elek to Communications and Membership Manager. Elek, who signed his new contract in early May, has been with the organization since October of 2011.
“Russ started here as a part-time employee. He worked hard, took on extra projects and gave 100%,” said BBA Executive Director Kelly Devine. “His extra effort is what created the need for him to be here full-time and we were happy to offer him this promotion.”
Elek, who began as the BBA’s Communications Specialist, will now take on a more active role in media relations and special projects, and will be the go to person for membership relations, recruitment and retention.
“I am excited by and grateful for this promotion,” noted Elek. “I love working with our members and getting paid to utilize my public relations and communications skills.”
Since beginning to focus on recruitment, Elek has helped the organization to grow its membership base by nearly 20% and has helped to secure 3 new Supporting Memberships, the second highest membership level.
The BBA is private membership organization which exists to “enhance and promote the economic vitality of Burlington, Vermont.” With an eye on City Hall, the BBA works to advocate for its membership base “to assure that the City of Burlington continues as the cultural, social, political, educational and economic center of Northwestern Vermont.”