Over the course of three days, the delegation engaged with more than 25 businesses representing a range of industries including hospitality, restaurant concepts, retail, arts, and culture. The mission provided an opportunity to meet directly with founders, operators, and executives to discuss expansion strategies, evolving consumer expectations, and the unique environment Beverly Hills offers to businesses seeking an internationally recognized location. These conversations are part of the Chamber’s ongoing strategy to cultivate relationships with companies that align with the city’s distinctive ecosystem of luxury retail, fine dining, arts, and experiential destinations.

One highlight of the trip was a visit to Caracas Bakery, where Venezuelan-inspired sourdough breads and pastries reflect a strong commitment to cultural authenticity and craftsmanship. The family-owned concept stood out as an example of the kind of distinctive and experience-driven businesses that resonate with the curated environment of Beverly Hills. Another memorable visit took place at Marky’s Caviar, where the delegation learned about the company’s luxury caviar offerings and its commitment to sustainability through its Sturgeon Aquafarms in Bascom, Florida. Marky’s produces the only purebred Beluga caviar in the United States, demonstrating how heritage craftsmanship and responsible stewardship can coexist within the luxury food sector.

The delegation also explored several of Miami’s most influential hospitality and cultural destinations, gaining insight into how experiential environments shape tourism and civic identity. These included the acclaimed dining destinations MILA, LPM Restaurant & Bar, and Shingo, each known for blending culinary excellence with immersive design and atmosphere. Beyond hospitality, the group visited the celebrated cultural venues Faena Theater and Wynwood Walls, as well as the internationally recognized design showcase Design Miami. Together, these locations illustrate how art, architecture, culinary innovation, and hospitality can work together to create dynamic cultural districts that attract global visitors and investors.

For Beverly Hills, already home to world-class restaurants, luxury retail, arts institutions, and internationally recognized landmarks, these visits offered valuable perspective on how other leading cities cultivate vibrant business ecosystems while maintaining a distinctive identity. Observing these concepts firsthand helps inform how Beverly Hills continues to evolve as a destination that balances heritage, innovation, and economic vitality.

Founded in 1923, the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce remains the authoritative voice for the city’s business community. Under the leadership of President and CEO Todd Johnson, the Chamber produces more than 150 events each year and continues to expand initiatives focused on advocacy, relationship-building, and strategic economic development. The Miami mission represents one component of a broader business attraction and retention strategy designed to identify companies that can thrive within Beverly Hills’ unique commercial landscape.

Interest in Beverly Hills remains strong. Several companies expressed enthusiasm about potential collaboration and future opportunities within the city, reinforcing Beverly Hills’ reputation as a premier global destination for luxury commerce, culture, and entrepreneurship. In the months ahead, the Chamber and the City will continue coordinated outreach, provide follow-up materials, and evaluate next steps with the most promising partners identified during the trip.

As the Chamber looks toward the remainder of 2026, its focus remains on strengthening Beverly Hills’ position as a world-class business destination while supporting the social, cultural, and civic fabric that defines the community. Through initiatives such as the Miami Business Attraction and Retention Mission, the City and the Chamber continue their long-standing commitment to fostering economic vitality, building meaningful partnerships, and preserving the unique character that makes Beverly Hills exceptional.

The post Beverly Hills Strengthens Global Business Ties During 2026 Miami Mission appeared first on Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce.

Throughout the year, the Council reinforced its mission: to provide members with direct access to decision-makers, to elevate understanding of regional trends, and to strengthen the long-term growth and competitiveness of Beverly Hills. From public safety innovation to global sporting events, healthcare leadership, and luxury industry trends, each luncheon offered a unique lens into the forces shaping our economic landscape.

December – A Statewide Perspective with Senator Ben Allen

The final program of the year featured California State Senator Ben Allen, who provided a comprehensive briefing on major issues facing the state—from environmental sustainability and climate legislation to electoral reform, education, and arts advocacy. As the author of landmark statewide policies, Senator Allen offered clarity on how upcoming initiatives could shape the economic and regulatory landscape for Beverly Hills businesses in 2026 and beyond.

November – A Vision for Beverly Hills with Mayor Sharona Nazarian

In November, the Council welcomed Mayor Sharona R. Nazarian, PsyD, the first Iranian American woman to serve as Mayor of Beverly Hills. Mayor Nazarian outlined her achievements and signature initiatives, including BHPD Live Link, BH Fire Watch, Spotlight with Sharona, Sharona’s Innovation Circle, and expanded business engagement programs. Her address underscored a year defined by public safety, innovation, intergenerational unity, and community partnership.

October – The Future of Healthcare with Cedars-Sinai CEO Dr. Peter Slavin

October brought an extraordinary presentation from Dr. Peter Slavin, CEO of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and former President of Massachusetts General Hospital. Dr. Slavin offered high-level insight into innovation in clinical care, research leadership, workforce development, and the evolving demands of premier healthcare systems. His perspective highlighted Cedars-Sinai’s vital role in driving global excellence from right here in Beverly Hills.

September – Preparing for the 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games

Representatives from LA28—Vic Nol and Rachel Chiu—briefed the Council on infrastructure, venue planning, transportation, hospitality readiness, and the economic opportunities ahead as Los Angeles prepares to host the world in 2028. Members gained clarity on how the Olympics will impact both regional strategy and local business activity.

August – Inside the BHPD K9 Unit

August’s program spotlighted Beverly Hills’ dedicated K9 Unit. Members learned about specialized training, tactical operations, and the mission of the BHPD K9 Foundation, which supports the long-term care and retirement needs of these service dogs. A live demonstration offered an unforgettable look at the partnership between officers and their canine counterparts.

June – Behind the Rose Parade® with CEO David Eads

CEO of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, David Eads, brought members inside the production of two of America’s most iconic events: the Rose Parade® and the Rose Bowl Game®. Eads shared operational insights, community impact, and the immense coordination that goes into hosting millions of viewers annually.

May – Public Safety Innovations with Chief Mark Stainbrook

Police Chief Mark Stainbrook briefed members on emerging law enforcement technologies—including the city’s growing drone program—and how Beverly Hills continues to set national standards in public safety. His remarks, rooted in decades of domestic and international experience, provided clarity and confidence in the city’s forward-facing safety strategy.

April – A Taste of Luxury at the B/S/H Showroom

The year opened with an immersive experience at the B/S/H Showroom on North Canon Drive, home to Bosch, Thermador, and Gaggenau. Members explored world-class craftsmanship and design innovation alongside a beautifully catered lunch from Bottega Louie, complete with Italian coffee and affogatos.

Above and beyond the monthly networking events, the Economic Development team advanced several strategic initiatives that strengthened Beverly Hills’ business ecosystem. Working alongside the City of Beverly Hills, the Chamber continued its annual New York City Mission, engaging luxury retailers and international brands interested in expanding into the Beverly Hills market. The team also partnered with City leadership on Mayoral Business Retention Meetings to connect with established businesses, gather insights, and provide tailored support. In addition, the Broker’s Roundtable brought together commercial brokers for quarterly conversations that offered real-time market updates and enhanced coordination with City departments. Together, these initiatives deepened relationships, supported growth, and reinforced Beverly Hills as a thriving global destination for business, culture, and innovation.

The Economic Development Committee continues to be a vital forum for dialogue, policy insight, and direct engagement with leaders shaping the future of Beverly Hills. If you’d like to be part of these high-value conversations, EDC access is included with Silver-level memberships and above. Non-members or General members may also purchase admission individually or as an add-on.

Join us at the next meeting and help shape the economic landscape of our city.
Learn more about the Economic Development Council (EDC) here.

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It is with heartfelt words that we announce Director of Membership Michelle Green will be departing from her position at the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce.

She has been serving our chamber and community in a variety of capacities for more than five years. We cannot express enough how thankful we are for all she has done for not only the Chamber and its members, but the Beverly Hills business community, as a whole. We will truly miss her positive energy, fun sense of humor, personable spirit and caring nature as she embarks on a new path. Thank you for everything, Michelle and we wish you nothing but the best!

While the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce is sad to see her go, we look forward to continuing to serve our beloved business community in 2021!

A note from Michelle:

It is with a very heavy heart that I announce my resignation as Director of Membership for the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce effective January 31, 2021. Most of you know the story of my journey that brought us out to Los Angeles five and half years ago and guided me to my new family 3,000 miles away from home, the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce. I instantly fell in love with the team and with our Members. I always said that I am our best testament of all that you can achieve by engaging with our Chamber. In just a few short years, I went from not knowing anyone to being the business matchmaker in Beverly Hills, all because of our Chamber.

I have been honored to work with such an amazing team. From the most engaged Board of Directors of an organization that I have had the pleasure to work with, to the close-knit staff made of extraordinary talented individuals who bring so much to the table and I admire and respect deeply. I would like to especially thank President & CEO Todd Johnson and CFO Farimah Fayyad for welcoming my family and me with open arms. It has been a joy working and learning alongside you, but most importantly, I have immense gratitude for providing the extraordinary opportunity for me to succeed.

It has been a pleasure to work with so many dedicated individuals, staff & engaged Members alike (especially our Ambassadors & Committee Members). Please know, my reason to depart is only one of personal circumstances to be closer to my mother during these challenging times when she needs me the most.

With that, I would like to announce that Nick Lara will be transitioning to Director of Sales and will be overseeing the Membership Department going forward.  Of course, you will still be able to connect with Membership Coordinator Elisabeth Rojtman, who is available to assist with your Membership needs.

Lastly, I want to thank my entire Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce family. If this last year has taught me anything, it is that we can still stay connected and thrive virtually. Please connect with me on LinkedIn where you will be able to keep up to date with future opportunities.

– Michelle Green

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Name:

Position: Marketing & Event Coordinator 

Where are you from originally? Stevenson Ranch, CA 

When did you start working at the Chamber? End of July 2018 

What were you doing before you started working at the Chamber?  I was going to school at California State University, Fullerton. I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in business marketing in early July 2018. 

Favorite thing about your job: Working with and meeting such amazing people. Also, it gives me the opportunity to learn and grow in a professional setting. 

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? I like to go shopping, watch The Office and go out with friends. I also enjoy spending time with my family and my cat. 

What are the best and worst things about living in LA? The best thing about living in LA is the weather. I don’t like the cold, so this is the perfect place to be all year round. Also, it is very fast-paced which I enjoy. Of course, I have to say that the worst part about living in LA is the traffic given that I commute every day from Stevenson Ranch. Other than that, I think LA is the best! 

One piece of advice for Chamber members: Create and maintain business relationships on a personal level. Beverly Hills thrives on its sense of community and so do the people. 

Three bucket list items:

• Go kayaking with killer whales
• Meet Ariana Grande
• Get married and start a family

What is one thing you wish you could tell your fifteen year old self? Don’t get caught up in negative relationships. Stay strong in your faith, work hard, and focus on what you need to do to achieve your goals.

If you could have one superhuman power, what would it be? The ability to fly

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? A marine biologist

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Name: 

Position: Program Coordinator

Where are you originally from? Imperial, CA

When did you start working at the Chamber? August 2018

What were you doing before you started working at the Chamber?

I was the Program & Communications Manager for a nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching kids throughout LAUSD proper nutrition and healthy eating habits.

Favorite thing about your job:

I love coordinating the monthly My Beverly Hills mixers and being able to assist with so many other events that we put on at the Chamber. I also love being able to constantly meet new people.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I love to constantly be with my friends whether we’re staying in and watching movies or going out for drinks.

What are the best and worst things about living in LA?

The best thing about LA is being so close to everything. The worst thing about LA is definitely the traffic!

One piece of advice for Chamber members:

Get involved with the Chamber as much as possible. You won’t be able to network and see the benefits of your membership if you aren’t involved.

Three bucket list items:

1. Travel the world
2. Master all skills in design and the creative arts
3. Own a house on a cliff overlooking the ocean with an indoor saltwater aquarium of at least 250 gallons and a big yard outside with a huge garden and at least 1 Shih Tzu running around.

What is one thing you wish you could tell your fifteen year old self?

Always learn from your mistakes and keep looking towards the future!

If you could have one superhuman power, what would it be?

Telekinesis (the ability to move things with your mind)

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Name: Elisabeth Rojtman

Position: Membership Coordinator

Where are you from originally? Los Angeles, CA

When did you start working at the Chamber? I interned for the Chamber for two years while attending college. I got hired as the Program Coordinator in mid-June 2018 and recently got promoted to Membership Coordinator in late August.

What were you doing before you started working at the Chamber? I was going to school at University of California, Santa Barbara. I graduated in June 2018 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications.

Favorite thing about your job: Meeting new people and connecting them with new businesses.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? I like to hike, go out and socialize and ice skate. Because I am so spontaneous, I like to do things that are thrill-seeking, as well. I am planning to go sky diving in the near future.

What are the best and worst things about living in LA?

Best: There are so many people and it never gets boring

Worst: People are very competitive with looks and materialistic items.

One piece of advice for Chamber members: BE PROACTIVE IN ATTENDING EVENTS! Utilize your benefits as a member.

Three bucket list items: Be highly involved in charitable work, be a contestant on a game show (preferably Deal or No Deal), have dinner at the White House.

What is one thing you wish you could tell your fifteen-year-old self? Never let someone else’s judgment control your ability to succeed.

If you could have one superhuman power, what would it be? The gift of persuasion.

The post Meet Membership Coordinator Elisabeth Rojtman appeared first on Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce.

• Los Angeles

When did you start working at the Chamber?

• 2016

What were you doing before you started working at the Chamber?

• I am an attorney by background.  I worked for many years at a law firm downtown and then had my own practice for several years.

Favorite thing about your job:

• The ability to make connections and solve problems for our members and see them do well.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

•  I love to hike, read, watch sports and travel

What are the best and worst things about living in LA?

• The best thing about LA is the diversity of things to do and the people; it’s never boring.  The worst part is the traffic
  and lack of green space.

One piece of advice for Chamber members:

• Show up to events and functions.  Nothing beats the connections you make face to face.

Three bucket list items:

1. Travel to Australia
2. Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
3. Attend the Olympic games.

What is one thing you wish you could tell your fifteen-year-old self?

• Enjoy the journey!

Favorite movie:

• Field of Dreams

Which technological advancements excite you the most?

• Autonomous vehicles

If you could have one superhuman power, what would it be?

• To fly

The post Meet the Director of Economic Development and Government Affairs – Blair Schlecter appeared first on Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce.

Wellsboro, Pennsylvania I came to LA 32 years ago.

When did you start working at the Chamber?

While I was in the restaurant world, I was involved with the Chamber for 12 years on their Board and served as President of the Board 8 years ago and Chief Financial Officer for 2 years. I took over as CEO almost 3 years ago. Being on both sides, I feel that I have a unique perspective on both sides of the table being a member and part of the staff.

What were you doing before you started working at the Chamber?

I was in the restaurant business for 28 years and 17 years was with Lawry’s. I was the General Manager for the Beverly Hills location then served as Regional Manager for 6 ½ years.

Favorite thing about your job:

Being an extrovert, I enjoy meeting people and listening to their opinions and perceptions. It’s also not a normal 9-5 job which I have never wanted, hence going into the restaurant world. When you find what you’re passionate about, you don’t mind working 50-60 hours a week because it is no longer work…it’s a lifestyle.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I love doing stuff with my wife and dogs!  Also, Scuba diving, skiing, gym, long walks

What are the best and worst things about living in LA?

Worst: The traffic – It’s overpopulated, but hey there’s always other places to live. My hometown has a population of 3,000 and a total of 4 stop lights!

Best: There are so many culturally different styles of people that makes it very interesting. And of course, the weather. There’s also a lot to do here!

One piece of advice for Chamber members:

Get involved! I always tell people, “You have to join the Chamber for the right reasons. And you’re going to get out of it what you put into it.” It’s like a gym membership. You have to go to see results. Our Chamber offers over 150 events a year, and you can choose which to get involved in, but bottom line, get involved!

Three bucket list items:

1. My wife and I are avid scuba divers and there are some other tropical locations we want to go to.
2. I want to be remembered for making a difference in someone’s life in a positive way – I try to make sure that people who work for me leave better than when they started. I want to make sure that I’m doing my best for them.
3. I don’t necessarily have a bucket list because when there’s something I want to do, I go do it!

What is one thing you wish you could tell your fifteen-year-old self?

Don’t sweat the small stuff. This was a piece of advice my mother gave my wife and me when we got married, and my parents are celebrating 60 years next month. And ultimately, you grow and learn when things aren’t good. It’s great when you’re loving life and things are rosy, but I think that your faith is never tested until it’s stretched and, in the end, it makes you a better person.

If you could have one superhuman power, what would it be?

The ability to communicate with everyone on the planet.

The post Meet The Chamber CEO Todd Johnson appeared first on Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce.

Name:

Michelle Green

Position:

Membership Executive

Where are you from originally?

I was quite fortunate as a child to have experienced many different places.  I was born in Pennsylvania, grew up in Florida and Kentucky. Moved to Hilton Head Island,SC when I started my family until I made Los Angeles my home in late August of 2015.

When did you start working at the Chamber? 

The Beverly Hills Chamber was my first employer when I moved here, so about 2 1/2 years now.

What were you doing before you started working at the Chamber? 

My biggest passion in my life are my children.  I have two incredibly gifted and talented daughters that dance.  They started following their dreams many years ago when they were young teenagers, charting their course to move from SC; one to New York City and the other to Los Angeles.  As a single mother for the last 18 years, I’ve spent my career days focused on how I can help make their dreams come true.  With that, my resume is quite eclectic.  While I did work for the Town of Hilton Head and had experience with their Chamber and CVB, I opted to trade that  in for a part time job with USAir to provide the free flight benefits so my daughters could travel the country and assist master dance teachers to help further their dance careers.  When I wasn’t marshaling the airplanes, I took a full time job with Marriott Vacation Club to work around my part time union airline schedule.  If that wasn’t enough, I filled in my extra hours at the airport helping out Enterprise Car Rental.  So for several years, I was able to provide my girls the travel benefits of flights, hotels and car rentals for all of their dance travel needs.  After years of my girls checking the boxes of college scholarship requirements, they each secured scholarships at the schools of their choice.  My oldest was moving to NewYork City and my youngest, to Los Angeles.  The younger one was only 16 and graduating from high school early, but too young for her to move to Los Angeles on her own.  I could not deny her the opportunity, so I quit all of my jobs, sold everything we owned and we “packed up the car and moved to Beverly” … Literally.  I was fortunate enough to find the open position with the Beverly Hills Chamber as we were driving across country (at the Grand Canyon to be exact).  I secured an interview before ever making it to Los Angeles.  That was a life lesson to my daughters to never let the fear of the unknown stop you from chasing your dreams.  Where there is a will, there is a way!

Favorite thing about your job:

I’m an extremely social person and love meeting new people.  But even more than that, I love connecting people.  This is the perfect job for me.  The mission of the Chamber is to be that invaluable resource for connections.  I love being the business Matchmaker of the Beverly Hills Chamber!

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? 

I love to travel and experience new places.  Up until now, all my traveling has been with my daughters traveling the country with their dancing.  We never had any true “vacation time” to go anywhere that wasn’t dance related.  I always tried to add on extra days to explore the cities we were in which I’m grateful that we had that opportunity to see so much of our own country!  With my girls in college and out of the house, I seem to have a bit more freedom to travel and check things off my bucket list.  Last year, I bought my first passport for a trip that I won to China! I was nervous and intimidated by the thought of traveling to Asia, but once there, I absolutely loved it and I can’t wait to go back!  My girls and I rented a house in Mexico for Thanksgiving!  Now, I REALLY have the travel bug and I’m planning future trips abroad!

One piece of advice for Chamber members: 

Get involved! We have one of the best Chambers I’ve ever known.  Your success as a Chamber Member will only come from you being active and engaged and foster relationships from the connections that we help you make. We have so much to offer; there is something for everyone.  If you aren’t sure of all that we can offer you, please attend our “Get to Know Your Chamber” or reach out to us directly. We WANT you to be successful! That’s our job!

What are the best and worst things about living in LA?

There are so many positives to living in Los Angeles.  I come from the south east coast where it is hot, humid, buggy (but beautiful)… Here, I absolutely LOVE the weather!! You can’t beat it.  And there is so much to do. Every direction you turn you have something different: the ocean, the mountains, the desert, etc.  Mostly, I love the people.  I have been blessed to have come into a community that has a world famous brand name “Beverly Hills” but it has a “home town” feel to those who live and work here.  For being strangers, my daughter and I have been welcomed with open arms and I love it.

The worst things… 

The traffic, which is why I try to avoid it at all costs.  And, I still feel uneasy with the constant threat of an earthquake.  I’m used to Hurricanes that you have a week’s notice to prepare for.  But, the positives definitely outweigh the negatives.

Three bucket list items:

• Travel the world – as many places as possible
• Say YES to things that are out of your comfort zone but are amazing experiences (i.e. skydiving)
• To see my girls’ lives unfold and witnessing their journey to see where life takes them

What is one thing you wish you could tell your fifteen year old self: 

Don’t take life so seriously. Don’t chase success through grades and degrees and things that people tell you that you need to do to be successful.  Follow your happiness and you will find success.  Life is too short to not be happy!  And… I know the teachers reprimand you and mark your report cards with “great grades, but talks to much” … “too much socializing in class”…. But don’t worry!  One day you’ll get paid to socialize… and you will love it!  You be you!

If you could have one superhuman power, what would it be? 

To heal people!

To get in touch with Michelle and the rest of the Chamber staff, please click here.

The post From Dance Mom to Membership Matchmaker: Meet Chamber Staff Member Michelle Green! appeared first on Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce.

Name:

Alexandria Anderson

Position:

Marketing & Event Manager

Where are you from originally?

Port Angeles, Washington – the beautiful Olympic Peninsula

When did you start working at the Chamber?

October, 2016

What were you doing before you started working at the Chamber?

Serving as the Events Coordinator for the Pullman Chamber of Commerce in Pullman, Washington, Home of the Washington State Cougars. Go Cougs!

Favorite thing about your job:

The impact we are able to make in Beverly Hills and the greater LA community.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Exploring new beaches, neighborhoods, restaurants and shops around LA.

One piece of advice for Chamber members:

Stay connected – stay current with our Chamber Newsletters, connect with us on social media, attend at least one event per month.

What are the best and worst things about living in LA?

I love the diversity – people, entertainment, food, culture. My least favorite is the traffic.

Three bucket list items:

• Snorkel in the Caribbean
• Visit Zion National Park
• Hit the beach at least once every month for the rest of my life

What is one thing you wish you could tell your fifteen year old self:

Stop trying to plan everything out, continue taking Spanish

If you could have one superhuman power, what would it be?

Teleportation

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Marine Biologist

To get in touch with Alexandia and the rest of the Chamber staff, please click here. 

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