Laurie Gussak recently joined ISITC in the role of executive director. She has more than 30 years of experience in the not-for-profit /association management industry.
She earned a Master of Business Administration in marketing from Rochester Institute of Technology. Laurie also graduated from the Institute of Organization Management, which is a prominent training program for association executives. She obtained her certification as a Certified Association Executive through the American Society of Association Executives. She is active in her professional community serving on a variety of boards and committees.
When did you begin working with ISITC and how do you support prospective and current ISITC members in your role as executive director?
I began working with ISITC in June of this year. My main role is to assist in strategic planning for the organization supporting the board, sub-committees and working groups. I also work closely with our conference and events committee and our senior association and meetings manager to plan and market ISITC conferences, summits, webinars and other events.
In addition, I support the membership and help with any needs or questions members may have. I work with prospective members as well by responding to inquiries and explaining the mission and role of ISITC and promoting its benefits.
What do you see as being the biggest benefit of joining the ISITC community?
There are so many benefits that it’s a challenge to highlight one above the others. There are tremendous networking opportunities as well as the ability for a company and its representatives to play a role on issues that impact our industry and participate in the development of best practices. After speaking with attendees during the Fall Forum, many participants noted that a key strength of ISITC is its ability to bring together companies from the entire securities lifecycle to communicate together and develop global solutions.
What upcoming projects/initiatives are you most excited about?
I am excited for the ISITC Winter Forum that will be held in Ft. Lauderdale in December. Not only will it be held in my home state of Florida, but the sessions that are planned are extremely topical. There’s going to be a wealth of information-sharing, education and dialogue on key issues such as T+1, and more.
What advice would you give to anyone who is considering joining ISITC?
Contact me! I’m here to answer any questions prospective members may have. ISITC is a vibrant, growing organization and is playing a key role in key issues that impact the industry.
How can prospective members get in touch with you to learn more about the organization and how to get involved?
I can be reached at lgussak@association-partners.com or by phone at (908) 359-1184, ext. 102.