Hudson Chamber Monthly Meeting

Description

The Monthly Meeting Series is your consistent touchpoint for staying engaged with Hudson County’s most important conversations. Held on the second Thursday of each month, this lunch event brings together business leaders, government officials, and community stakeholders for high-impact networking, timely policy dialogue, and actionable insights.

Built on the foundation of our long-standing Employer Legislative Committee (ELC) forums, sponsored by Fidelity Investments and in partnership with the NJBIA, the series highlights topics of major interest across all industries and sectors. Whether you're an entrepreneur, small business owner, nonprofit or corporate leader — you'll find relevant connections and resources to grow your influence and impact.

Why Attend?

1. Connect with key local decision-makers.
2. Gain insights from expert speakers.
3. Stay informed on regional policy issues.
4. Expand your professional and personal networks.

Open to Chamber and prospective members.

Dress Code: Business Casual

Agenda:

12:00 PM - Event Opens & Lunch is Served
12:15 PM - Welcoming Remarks by Emory Edwards, President & CEO
12:18 PM - Table Sponsor Remarks - Valley Bank
12:20 PM - NJBIA Trenton Update
12:25 PM - Keynote Speaker
12:45 PM - Q&A
1:00 PM - Power Networking
1:15 PM - Event Concludes

About Melanie Willoughby

Melanie Willoughby, named one of New Jersey’s most influential economic development leaders, is no stranger to the New Jersey business community. Before joining the NJBAC in 2018, Melanie served as the Chief Government Affairs Officer of the New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA).  A seasoned government relations strategist, with 48 years working in Trenton, Melanie has worked with federal, state and local levels of government as an advocate for businesses of all sizes and types.

Prior to joining NJBIA, she served as the president and CEO of the New Jersey Retail Merchants Association, a statewide retail business organization.  She was the voice of the retail industry on the state and national stage.

She started her career in the administration of Governor Brendan Byrne, as the Director of State and Federal Government Affairs in the NJ Department of Community Affairs. She directed the Governor’s agenda on fiscal control of municipal and county governments, housing development, and land use planning.

Her personal motto - “I’m from government and I’m here to help.” - reflects her commitment to aiding New Jersey businesses.