2010-2011 Chairman of the Board

Rich LaFleur, Grant Thornton LLP

It is both humbling and a distinct honor to serve as Chairman of the Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce for the 2010-2011 year.  It has been a pleasure to work with Stuart Mendelsohn in his leadership role over the past year as we have reinforced the focus of the Chamber on member value as defined by thought leadership, advocacy and creating networking opportunities for our members to grow their businesses.   We owe Stu a huge debt of gratitude for his dedication to this organization.

This past year was also a year of transition for the Chamber, having completed a successful search for our new CEO, Jim Corcoran. I look forward to working closely with Jim to continue to shape a Chamber of Commerce that positively impacts the business environment in the County.

Our success as an organization is direct reflection of the success of our members and the surrounding business community.   Over the next year, together we must capitalize on the momentum being fueled by large corporations moving to the County and a vibrant environment in which to grow and nurture small businesses. We must also continue speaking out on behalf of businesses in Northern Virginia in the advocacy arena.  Lastly, we must collaborate and partner with other professional organizations, the County’s school system, and our local colleges and universities to extend the impact of our agenda.

As your Chairman, I will work to uphold the trust you have invested in me.  Thank you for this privilege.

Richard LaFleur
Mid Atlantic Practice Managing Partner
Grant Thornton LLP