News Summary

The Grand Rapids Chamber hosted the West Michigan CEO Summit on June 10, 2025, gathering business leaders to discuss resilience amid economic challenges. Keynote speaker Mark D’Antonio emphasized essential leadership qualities while economic expert Paul Isely provided insights into the current financial landscape. The summit aimed to equip executives with strategies to navigate uncertainties and foster collaboration among local leaders.

Grand Rapids – The annual Grand Rapids Chamber West Michigan CEO Summit drew hundreds of business leaders on June 10, 2025, at the JW Marriott in downtown Grand Rapids, focusing on enhancing resilience in leadership amid ongoing economic uncertainties. The event sought to foster discussion around leadership development and current economic conditions affecting local businesses.

Former Michigan State University football coach Mark D’Antonio served as the headline speaker, sharing valuable insights on successful leadership qualities. Key themes addressed included the importance of communication, commitment, trust, effort, toughness, and knowledge. Andy Johnston, Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at Grand Rapids Chamber, highlighted the summit’s mission to empower business leaders in resolving challenges while reinforcing team dynamics to foster growth within their organizations.

The gathering provided a platform for CEOs and executives to share experiences and strategies aimed at navigating current challenges. John Tuttle, President of Acrisure, expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with fellow executives to uncover opportunities through shared insights. Andrew Havemeier, owner of Hall Street Bakery and Wealthy Street Bakery, recounted his personal journey of resilience, having triumphed over addiction and homelessness.

In conjunction with leadership discussions, the summit featured economic expert Paul Isely, Associate Dean at Grand Valley State University’s Seidman College of Business. Isely provided attendees with a comprehensive overview of the prevailing economic landscape and consumer sentiment. He noted that many consumers are currently “maxed out” financially, citing an alarming increase in late car payments among individuals aged 30 to 49, reminiscent of conditions leading up to the 2008 recession.

Isely also highlighted the rising costs of food and restaurant services, which are escalating faster than the growth of median household income. This trend has corresponded with decreased sales at many food chains. Furthermore, he addressed the real estate market, indicating that the construction of new housing in West Michigan is outpacing population growth, resulting in stagnating rent increases particularly in Kent and Ottawa counties.

The economic climate is further complicated by several disruptors affecting local businesses, including fluctuating interest rates, advancements in artificial intelligence, and international tariffs. Isely cautioned that interest rates are expected to remain high, similar to levels seen in Europe, presenting additional challenges for local business operations.

The transition towards AI integration in the workforce may lead to an interim period of job losses, particularly impacting individuals in their 50s. Despite this, Isely emphasized the importance for businesses to embrace AI technology, advocating a proactive stance amid ongoing labor shortages. Furthermore, the potential implementation of President Trump’s proposed tax cuts is expected to introduce additional disruptions to the business environment.

The West Michigan CEO Summit aimed to assist executives in sharpening their focus, sustaining operational momentum, and preparing for the projected economic slowdown anticipated in the third quarter. The Chamber encouraged registration for the summit, framing it as a crucial investment for both personal and professional growth, particularly in light of the pressing economic conditions businesses currently face.

The event underscored the importance of collaboration and resource sharing among regional leaders as they confront common challenges and strive to emerge stronger in an unpredictable economic landscape.