News
March 9, 2016CEG Hosts Discussion on Capital Region CEO Sentiment
The Center for Economic Growth (CEG) hosted “Inside the Numbers: Business Leaders Insights” this morning from 7:30-9:30 a.m. at the Desmond Hotel in Albany, NY. The event focused on the results of the 9th Annual Upstate New York Business Leaders Survey, conducted by the Siena Research Institute (SRI), sponsored by the Business Council of New York State.
Dr. Donald Levy, Director of the SRI presented the survey’s findings to a group of 85 business leaders and CEOs from multiple industries across the Capital Region. The presentation was followed by a panel discussion featuring Michael Hickey, Interim President & CEO, CEG; Heather Briccetti, Esq., President & CEO, the Business Council of NYS; and Jennifer MacPhee, Albany/Hudson Valley Region President, Bank of America. Donald Levy also joined the panel, and Rex Smith, Editor of the Times Union was the moderator.
“Our survey of business leaders has been both predictive and provocative owing mainly to the generous participation of CEO’s across Upstate New York. Each year we learn of their expectations for revenues, profits and concentrations for the year ahead as well as their assessment of their obstacles and opportunities. The findings have been invaluable for New Yorkers, policy makers but most importantly, the CEO’s themselves, said Dr. Don Levy, Director, Siena Research Institute.
Panelists discussed results of the survey – specifically focused on workforce preparedness, data security, the minimum wage increase, and the affordable care act and the effects of these issues on business and the community.
“This survey is the collective voice of our business community. It speaks volumes as to the attitudes of our industry leaders as they drive their business within extremely competitive markets,” said Michael Hickey, Interim President & CEO, CEG. “The results are an important starting point for collaborative discussions between government and the private sector on how we can improve doing business in New York State.”
“The Business Council is the voice of business across New York State. Whether we are directly lobbying state officials, interacting with the news media, or helping members overcome legal and regulatory hurdles, it is our mission to be there for you. The SRI is a well-respected and highly-regarded organization across every corner of the state and we are delighted to associate ourselves with their brand and this survey,” said Heather Briccetti, Esq., President & CEO, The Business Council of New York State, Inc.
