Movers and Shakers Movers and Shakers: Manatee Chamber Hires Michael Gallen as V.P. of Public Policy & Small Business

BRADENTON – The Manatee Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Michael Gallen will join its staff as Vice President, Public Policy & Small Business, beginning March 16, 2015. Michael will fill the position being vacated by Neil Spirtas, Senior Vice President, who will leave the Chamber after a stellar 30-year career to pursue teaching, writing and travel. Michael will work alongside Neil through mid-April.

Michael’s past experience includes a 4-year term on the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners as well as a position with the Florida House of Representatives Committee on Business Regulation. He has a law degree from Nova Southeastern University and a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Georgia.  Since leaving the County Commission, Michael has been teaching politics and government at IMG Academy and is a former teacher with the Manatee County School Board at the high school level.

“It is going to be difficult to say good-bye to Neil Spirtas after his 30-year career with the Manatee Chamber. The work Neil has done on behalf of the Chamber and our community has had tremendous impact. Businesses and residents have benefited from his passionate commitment to supporting our local economy and improving our quality of life,” said Bob Bartz, President of the Manatee Chamber of Commerce. “We are excited to have Michael Gallen joining our team. He brings a wealth of knowledge of local and state government, a commitment to furthering public policies that ensure a strong business community, and a love of Manatee County nurtured by long-standing family ties and involvement in Manatee County.”

The Manatee Chamber of Commerce, with more than 2,100 member organizations representing 74,000+ employees, has offices in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch.  Its mission is to build a positive business environment while enhancing our community’s quality of life.