Introducing our new Director of Member Engagement, Theresa Montano

We have a new team member at the Maryland Chamber of Commerce that you’re going to want to get to know!  Theresa Montano, who joined us recently as the Director of Member Engagement, is an accomplished sales and chamber professional – and all around good human –  who is excited to get to work supporting members and the Maryland business community.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you’ll be focusing on in your role as Director of Member Engagement.

I’m a Maryland native – I was born here, raised my son here and recently moved back to stay – who grew up in California and most recently spent time living and working in Charleston, South Carolina. I love Maryland and the people, communities and businesses who make it so unique – and I’m thrilled that those are the very things I’m going to be supporting in my role with the Maryland Chamber of Commerce.

Essentially, my focus will be to engage our current members, ensuring that their needs are being supported, that they know their voice is being heard and that we’re advocating for them and keeping them informed about what we are doing as a Chamber to move Maryland forward. In addition, I’ll get to connect with other Maryland businesses that could benefit from the work of the Chamber and the advocacy we provide to help make the state better for business.

What are you most looking forward to in this new position?

I’ve worked in sales for much of my career, most recently working with the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, and have realized that I really love doing work that is helpful and beneficial to the community. I’m a community minded person –connecting with people and helping them succeed – and this role is going to give me an opportunity to do just that.

The Maryland Chamber of Commerce does incredibly important work to give businesses a voice and advocate for state and national policies that make sense for business – and, from my past experience, I know that the result of that work is beneficial to helping the businesses that make our state so unique be even more successful.

You’ve had a very successful career – how do you anticipate that helping you in your work with the Chamber?

I have been blessed with great experiences, leadership and mentors throughout my career who have helped me learn some of the ins and outs of business. I’ve learned about the incredible importance of relationships – that’s really one of the keys to success for anyone – along with some of the aspects involved with running a business, including things like operations, human resources, and infrastructure. I think all of the experiences I’ve had have shaped me into the person I am today – and will help me relate to our members in very real ways.

What are a few things that you’re excited about doing now that you’re back in Maryland?

I am thrilled to be back in Maryland where my son, daughter-in-law and new grandson live. I have an incredibly close relationship with my family – and I’m so excited to be able to spend time with them in person, to be able to watch my grandson Mathew grow up and to have the chance to spend time playing, helping him learn and grow.

I also am looking forward to getting involved in volunteer work. I was an active volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and the Food Bank during my time in Charleston, and that’s something I’m excited to do here in Maryland as well. I think it will help me feel even more connected to this great state.

What’s on your agenda as you get settled in your new home and position?

I am looking forward to getting out into the community to meet members and to connect with potential members. I’m also excited to explore Annapolis – it is such a warm and friendly town. Also on my to-do list: exploring local famers markets, enjoying an Aberdeen IronBirds game, rooting on the O’s, and spending time gardening and cooking.

Fun fact time! What’s a fun fact or experience that you’d like to share? 

When I was growing up, one of my brothers worked for Goodyear Blimp! – so one day, my younger brother and I got to tag along and go to work with him. We got to ride in the Goodyear Blimp and see an amazing view of the California landscape.