Thank you for following along with our monthly Chamber Camaraderie series, which highlights outstanding and hardworking team members from Chambers of Commerce throughout Massachusetts.
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Introduce yourself! Who are you and what do you do at your Chamber of Commerce?
Hello! My name is Deb, and I am thrilled to introduce myself as a newly elected member of the Board of Directors for the Arlington Chamber of Commerce. Professionally, I serve as the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Wolf Group. At Wolf Group, we specialize in enhancing the operational backbone of small businesses by providing Business Management and Fractional COO services. This means we step into organizations not just as advisors, but as active partners who roll up their sleeves and implement necessary systems and processes, manage projects, set up technologies, manage vendors, and more. My services cover a wide range of operational needs, from setting up efficient systems and processes to integrating sophisticated software solutions and managing complex projects and vendor relationships. My commitment is to not only design but also directly implement strategies that streamline operations, boost productivity, and support sustainable growth. I believe that small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy, and our mission is to help them thrive by taking on the heavy lifting in operations management.
I am honored to serve on the Arlington Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, driven by my commitment to community service and economic development. Although my clients are from all over the New England are, living and running my business in Arlington has given me a personal stake in our community’s success. My engineering background and experience as a business owner provide me with valuable skills in problem-solving and optimizing systems, which I believe are essential for supporting local business growth. As a new board member, I look forward to contributing to the Chamber’s initiatives, working with fellow members to foster a strong economic climate and collaborative environment. My involvement in organizing a new leads group within the Chamber has deepened my understanding of our diverse business landscape, and I am eager to bring my expertise and energy to help Arlington thrive.
What made you want to work for the Chamber of Commerce?
I am passionate about the opportunity to serve on the Arlington Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors because it aligns perfectly with my commitment to community service and economic development, especially the community in which I live. Living and running my business in Arlington has not only given me a personal stake in our community’s prosperity but has also allowed me to deeply understand the unique challenges and opportunities that local businesses face.
My background in engineering and my experience as a business owner who provides operational solutions to other small businesses equip me with a unique set of skills. These include problem-solving, optimizing systems, and implementing efficient practices. I believe these skills are crucial for the Chamber as it seeks to enhance the economic environment and support the growth of businesses in Arlington.
Through my involvement in organizing a new leads group within the Chamber, I have engaged with numerous business owners, gaining valuable insights into the diverse business landscape of our community. This role has enhanced my understanding of what businesses need to thrive and how the Chamber can best support them.
As a board member, I aim to leverage my technical and strategic expertise to contribute to the Chamber’s initiatives, ensuring they are efficient, effective, and responsive to the needs of all member businesses. I am eager to bring my energy and ideas to the Board, helping to foster a thriving local economy that benefits all of Arlington.
What do you love the most about the area where you live in Massachusetts?
I love Arlington’s strong sense of community. Since moving here in 2020, I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know many of my neighbors, discovering local resources, and connecting with business owners. Arlington offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and vibrant urban amenities. The support and camaraderie among residents are truly special, and the town’s commitment to maintaining green spaces, promoting local businesses, and fostering a welcoming environment makes it an ideal place to live and work. The cultural events, parks, and excellent schools further enhance the quality of life, making Arlington a wonderful place to call home.
Why do you think it’s important for everyone to be a member of a Chamber of Commerce?
Being a member of a Chamber of Commerce is essential as it offers networking opportunities, advocacy, and educational resources. It helps businesses connect, collaborate, and stay competitive while supporting a thriving local economy that benefits the entire community. Membership also demonstrates a commitment to the community’s growth and prosperity, showing that businesses are invested in the success of the area.
What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned throughout my career is the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. The business landscape is constantly evolving, and being open to change and willing to acquire new skills is crucial for long-term success. Equally important are trust and integrity, which are the foundations of any successful business relationship. Building trust with clients, partners, and team members is a focus at my company and helps me not only foster a positive and collaborative environment, but also ensure a long-term partnerships and mutual success. Embracing these values has helped me navigate challenges and welcome new opportunities, aligning personal growth with business development.
If you weren’t in your current position, what would your next dream job be?
I would love to be the COO in a larger tech company.
When you’re not working, what activities do you enjoy?
I love exploring new and esoteric culinary experiences, reflecting my love for unique flavors and innovative dining concepts. My personal downtime involves indulging in paint-by-numbers, which allows me to unwind and express creativity without the pressure of perfection. I am also an avid reader with a keen interest in business literature, particularly histories of how major companies are built from the ground up. My favorite thing to do outside of work is spending time with my now 21 month old, teaching her my language, watching her speak and communicate, and give me orders!
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