Unshackle Upstate - 1/27/09: Announcement: New Executive Director of Unshackle Upstate

We have exciting news about Unshackle Upstate. We recently hired an executive director, whose goal is to take our coalition efforts to the next level as we work toward the reform needed to revitalize our region.

Please join us in welcoming Brian Sampson, who started as executive director on Jan. 5. Prior to joining Unshackle Upstate, Brian was the Upstate Director of Business Outreach for Empire State Development. His responsibilities there included making sure the agency was in tune and aligned with the needs of upstate businesses, as well as focusing on retention and expansion of existing businesses in New York State.

Prior to ESD, he served as vice president of the Builders Exchange of Rochester , a 550-plus membership association dedicated to the building and construction industry. In that position, Brian was charged with handling the legislative activities of a 10,000-member coalition working to reform Workers' Compensation and Labor Law 240/241, as well as promoting economic development across upstate New York. He also previously served as public affairs director and business development director for the Rochester Business Alliance prior to the Builders Exchange.

Over the next few weeks and months, Brian will be visiting each of you to discuss what Unshackle can do to support your organization. He will also work with you on the 2009 agenda, which we have enclosed, and how to get our message of reform out in your community.

As a partner with Unshackle Upstate, you play a vital role in the success of our coalition. Brian and the rest of the leadership of Unshackle Upstate and our respective staffs look forward to working with you to grow our coalition and advance our important efforts to make Upstate and all of New York state the best place to work and run a business.

Sincerely,