Brooklyn's Progress
October 2004

After two years with the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, Doug Jones is leaving the organization to join the New York City Economic Development Corporation (EDC). 

Doug joined the Chamber in April of 2002 as the Manager of Fulton FIRST.  Fulton FIRST received initial support from FleetBoston Financial Foundation, which eventually helped leverage participation from the New York City Department of Small Business Services. 

As the Manager of Fulton FIRST, Doug was responsible for managing various initiatives that helped attract investment in and support of the small business community on Fulton St.  Eventually, Doug was promoted to Director of Economic Development and managed the completion of the Fulton Street Retail Redevelopment Plan.  The Plan is the framework for increasing the number of cultural/entertainment venues, attracting new commercial opportunities and improving the streetscape and traffic flow of Fulton St.

Recently, Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation, a Fulton FIRST community partner, announced the arrival of Applebee’s Restaurant, Duane Reade Drugstoresand Foodtown Supermarket as anchor tenants in Restoration Plaza, a major accomplishment for Fulton FIRST. 

“Doug's move to EDC is a major step in his career and, while we are not happy to see him leave the Brooklyn Chamber, we are happy that he is embarking on this important new phase in his career,” said Rick Russo, Vice President for Business Services.  “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Doug on his various projects and look forward to working with him in his new role at EDC.”

At EDC, Doug will join Felix Ciampa and the staff of Intergovernmental Affairs to help catalyze the economic vibrancy of New York City through fostering relationships, sharing information and coordinating efforts with the Office of the Mayor of New York City, elected officials, city, state and federal agencies and community stakeholders.

Doug will begin his new job on Sept. 27.  Please join the Brooklyn Chamber in extending best wishes to Doug as he moves on to this dynamic new phase of his career.

In other staff news, the Brooklyn Chamber also bid farewell to Justine Manuel, Manager of Member Services, who left on Sept. 17. 

“Justine was a devoted member of our Chamber staff for many years.  I am grateful to her for her loyal service to this organization.  I am sure you all join me in wishing her the best,” said Kenneth Adams, Chamber President.