Quad Cities Business News

Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, & Dewey/Humboldt

You are here: Home / Archives for Sheri Heiney

Sheri Heiney

ATHENA Leadership Qualities on Display in the Quad Cities

By Leave a Comment

It’s an honor to inspire and empower others by showing them that their dreams are achievable.

Learning constantly, acting courageously and living authentically are among the key principles found in the way women lead, according to the ATHENA Leadership Model. These qualities are on display in the Quad Cities among women in leadership, such as Yavapai College President Dr. Lisa Rhine, Prescott College President Dr. Barbara Morris and Prescott Chamber of Commerce President Sheri Heiney.

Learning Constantly

Lisa Rhine, Ph.D., is not proud of her upbringing. “It wasn’t pretty. In fact, it was painful,” she said. “I grew up in an impoverished home where the only thing that was consistent was chaos.” Her father, a single parent of six who left school after 8th grade, worked three jobs to feed the family. When he wasn’t successful, young Lisa and her siblings were shuttled around to foster care.

“I knew, even at a young age, somehow, that education was the thing that would lift me out of this mess and be the lever that would catapult me out of challenging, even dire, circumstances and change not only my fate, but the fate of the next generation.”

Rhine was the first in her family to attend college. It wasn’t easy, but she kept pushing through, through her bachelor’s degree, through her master’s degree, and through her doctoral degree. “The adversity you experience in your life is actually what builds your leadership ‘muscle.’ In my experience as a senior leader in academia at colleges and universities, I have learned that a key aspect to leadership success is resilience. Resilience develops as we adapt, bounce back and maintain a positive mindset and a high level of perseverance and determination in the face of challenges.”

Acting Courageously

From a very tender age, Barbara Morris always wanted the same opportunities as the boys. As a young teen, she determined she wanted to be President of the United States. “This was an outrageous thought in the ’70s,” she said, “but I read a famous book at the time by C. Wright Mills called ‘The Power Elite’ that said for those to excel in leadership they had to have three aspects in their career: politics, business and military.” She set out on her plan at age 14.

“The issue was how to get political, business and military experience as a girl at the time,” she said. Morris pursued a double major in political science and economics at San Diego State University, plus a minor in women’s studies. However, according to her plan, she still needed military experience.

“There was a flier stating the Air Force was looking for the first six women pilots, so I decided to apply.” After 18 months of boot camp, she was among the first group of women to be in oxygen deprivation tanks and was accepted into the program. Morris was on the flight path of her dreams. Then, unexpected turbulence. Sixteen years later, she found herself mustering the courage to leave a difficult relationship with three kids, no money and no job prospects.

Living Authentically

From an early age, Sheri Heiney learned that success often lies beyond the familiar and comfortable. “As a woman stepping into leadership roles, I encountered unfamiliar territory, where stereotypes and biases tried to undermine my capabilities. However, I embraced these challenges, turning them into opportunities for growth.”

Heiney studied hospitality management, earned her real estate license, Learned about  insurance licensing and pursued other specialty areas. “I wanted to understand more things and how they blended together.”

She then embraced leadership in a big way in Rochester, Michigan, as the president of the Chamber of Commerce, an area comparable in size to the entire Quad Cities.

“I am deeply aware of the impact my actions have on those around me, especially young women aspiring to leadership roles. It’s an honor to inspire and empower others by showing them that their dreams are achievable. Authenticity, resilience and empathy are crucial traits that can leave a lasting impression on the next generation of leaders.”

Being true to herself, Heiney listens to her heart. “I’ve always wanted to have my own business.” Her love for animals explains the rescued donkey and pony in her household, along with the lively lab puppy she has in therapy training. Today, she is considering combining these passions.

Find out more about how Lisa Rhine, Barbara Morris and Sheri Heiney came to be leading ladies in the Quad Cities and how they created their personal blueprints for success. The three will share their journeys on the Women in Leadership Panel at the Quad Cities ATHENA Leadership Awards, starting at 3 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 24. For tickets, go to www.PrescottAthena.com. QCBN

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

Bonnie Stevens is a public relations consultant. She can be reached at bonnie.stevens@gmail.com.

Embracing Leadership: A Journey of Empowerment

By Leave a Comment

Authenticity Matters: Authentic leadership builds trust and respect. Be true to yourself, your values, and lead with integrity.

Being a woman in leadership is not just about occupying a high-ranking position; it’s about breaking barriers, shattering glass ceilings, and inspiring others to do the same. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing the responsibility and honor associated with being a role model and the profound impact of mentorship on personal growth. Today, I want to share my thoughts on these aspects, my leadership journey, and some valuable leadership tips.

Charting a Path to Success: Embracing the Uncharted Territory

From an early age, I learned that success often lies beyond the familiar and comfortable. As a woman stepping into leadership roles, I encountered unfamiliar territory, where stereotypes and biases tried to undermine my capabilities. However, I embraced these challenges, turning them into opportunities for growth. As women leaders, we must have the courage to challenge the status quo and embrace the uncharted territory, knowing that we can create a more inclusive and diverse workplace.

The Responsibility and Honor of Being a Role Model

Leadership comes with the responsibility of setting an example for others. As a woman in a position of influence, I am deeply aware of the impact my actions have on those around me, especially young women aspiring to leadership roles. It’s an honor to inspire and empower others by showing them that their dreams are achievable. Authenticity, resilience and empathy are crucial traits that can leave a lasting impression on the next generation of leaders.

The Power of Mentoring: Lifting Others as We Rise

Mentorship plays a pivotal role in nurturing leadership potential. Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who believed in me and encouraged my growth. As women leaders, it’s our duty to pay it forward by mentoring other women, providing guidance and creating a supportive environment for their development. Together, we can create a strong network of empowered women, fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual growth.

Diverse Leadership Styles: Finding Your Voice

Effective leadership knows no one-size-fits-all approach. Women bring unique perspectives and leadership styles that can drive innovation and success. Some leaders excel at fostering a collaborative environment, while others lead with decisive authority. Embrace your unique leadership style and adapt it to different situations. Diversity in leadership styles can lead to more inclusive and well-rounded decision-making processes.

Leadership Tips: Nurturing Your Leadership Potential

  • Continuous Learning: The world is constantly evolving and so should our skills. Invest in continuous learning, attend workshops and seminars, and seek mentorship to stay at the forefront of your industry.
  • Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with people who uplift and support your aspirations. Connect with like-minded individuals and join professional networks to expand your horizons.
  • Embrace Challenges: Don’t shy away from challenges; they are opportunities for growth. Embrace them with a positive mindset, and use setbacks as stepping stones toward success.
  • Authenticity Matters: Authentic leadership builds trust and respect. Be true to yourself, your values, and lead with integrity.
  • Effective Communication: Master the art of communication. Listen actively, express your ideas clearly and encourage open dialogue within your team.

In conclusion, being a woman in leadership is a journey of empowerment, where each step we take becomes a milestone for others to follow. Embrace your unique strengths, support others and lead with purpose. As leaders, we can pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future, empowering generations of women to come. QCBN

By Sheri Heiney

Sheri Heiney is the president of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce.

Sheri Heiney will be one of the featured guests on the “Women in Leadership Panel” at the 4th Annual Quad Cities ATHENA Leadership Awards, 3 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 24, at Starting Point. For more information about the event and tickets, visit PrescottAthena.com.

Sheri Heiney Focuses on Strengthening Businesses

By Leave a Comment

We are all here to help each other. All of us stayed together.

Sheri Heiney, president and CEO of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce, is close to completing her fifth year as head of the influential organization that provides business and economic leadership for a community approaching 48,000 in population.

“It’s hard to believe all that happened during these past few years. When my husband, John, and I first arrived the day after Christmas 2016, the economy was booming. Prescott and surrounding areas were in the midst of major growth. That’s what prompted me, as one of my first actions, to begin a strategic planning process. I wanted to know what membership wanted to keep businesses healthy and growing.”

The Heineys moved to Prescott from their former careers in Rochester, Michigan. John had accepted a position with the City of Prescott as community outreach manager. “We began by reaching out to the many businesses and organizations within Yavapai County. I’m thankful we did, for who knew there would be a pandemic. Certainly in our lifetime, it was a first. Our Chamber has had a huge role in sharing information during the pandemic.”

Heiney said the C of C is in a strong position, despite the pandemic, because it took an aggressive, yet positive, role in providing information, which helped keep businesses healthy.

The Chamber and many organizations within the county met weekly to discuss how to help businesses and communities. They shared what needs were identified by the business community with state legislators.

“Many members stepped up and gave us input, which we were able to take straight to the governor’s office and actually have some impact,” she said. “We are constantly listening to what the needs of the business community are. We try to reconcile those opportunities with all the resources we can band together. I would say communication and collaboration are key factors. We also work really hard with the Yavapai County Health Department. We discuss how to move forward if we are having community events, what we need to do.”

The C of C partners with the City of Prescott to help businesses, as well. It’s currently working with the Prescott Cares program, where the city received $427,000 in emergency federal funding to help individuals and businesses. “Our foundation is processing applications,” said Heiney. “The foundation, with its 501(c)(3) arm, has the capacity to really help the Chamber and the business community at large. It’s broad enough where it can make a difference. We’re leaning toward the foundation to assist in helping grow the area, to help support the business community and the Chamber with changing needs. We’re actively going after grants. We look at ways to partner with people so we can provide the best resources possible.”

Heiney gave examples of assistance the C of C provided. “We offer mini-videos to help our businesses promote themselves. Buying locally has always been our messaging. We really pushed it to help keep our businesses stable during the heat of closure. Even though we closed our C of C state-designated Visitor Center to keep things safe, we also pivoted and had networking groups online. We had more than 6,000 folks participate in networking via Zoom. We were able to sponsor some community events outside. We followed proper CDC guidelines and what the county had requested we do. Feedback I got from those actions is that the Chamber constantly evolved and kept moving things forward in a positive way. We’d help get businesses information they needed to get the PPP (Payment Protection Plan) and EIDL [Economic Injury Disaster Loan] to stay in business. It required constant evolution and remaking of the Chamber during troubling times. We still have PPP loans, hand sanitizers and masks and resources available for our businesses that they can pick up at no charge. That’s in addition to Phase 2 of the Prescott Cares program, where any business or individual that has been affected by COVID can still get some reimbursement and relief.”

Through the pandemic, Chamber membership has remained stable. “That’s one thing we’re proud of,” said Heiney. “In January 2020, before COVID, we were a little over 1,000 members. Now, we’re right around 960. One thing I’d like to share is that we now have a very positive retention rate. Our current year-to-date retention rate is 93.4%. Our 12-month retention rate is 84%. Those are great numbers. That speaks to the programming and connectivity, the welcoming atmosphere we create and our caring. We are all here to help each other. All of us stayed together. We communicated and articulated what was needed and helped resolve those issues as best we could.”

The Heineys are very happy they chose Prescott. “We are living our dream with a little ranch, garden, rescued mini-pony and mini-donkey and two spoiled Shih Tzus, Belia and Bailey. We absolutely love Prescott.” QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Small Businesses Struggle with Labor Shortage

By 1 Comment

Lack of workers is the latest blow delivered by COVID-19 as exhausted owners and managers continue to do whatever it takes.

Restaurateur Paul Moir may well have summed up how small business owners are feeling: “The labor shortage is the cherry on top of what has been a very difficult year.”

The co-owner of Brix and Proper Meats and Provisions and many other small business owners in the state are reporting a similar challenging timeline throughout the past 15 months. Businesses were closed in March 2020. Some were able to adjust and open through the summer and fall with curbside service and strict social distancing guidelines. Winter’s cold brought people indoors in a limited capacity.

“In December, everything went inside; business slowed dramatically. We made the decision to close Criollo for the winter,” he said about the downtown Flagstaff restaurant.

And then, the holidays hit Moir with another debilitating punch. “Brix had a COVID outbreak. We closed the restaurant on Christmas Eve because we had no staff. It freaked me out when everybody got sick.”

Pre-COVID, Paul and Laura Moir employed 45 people. During COVID-19, they were down to four who kept the Proper Meats artisanal butcher shop and deli open for grocery take-out.

Battle weary from the fight to have three restaurants staffed, supplied and running at various levels throughout the pandemic, the Moirs did not reopen Brix again until April 15, 2021. At the same time, they made the difficult decision to close Criollo Latin Kitchen permanently, after a decade of operation.

Today, casual fine dining at Brix on San Francisco Street is bustling again five days a week – down from six before the pandemic, because finding workers is a daunting problem. “We’ve been incredibly busy since re-opening Brix. We’re trying to hire, train and serve on the fly. I’ve waited stations and worked behind the bar. We’re doing what we have to do to get it done and slowly but surely bringing people on one or two at a time.”

Moir and other business owners say people are not showing up for job interviews and many do not want to work full-time. “I don’t know if that’s the result of laying low during COVID or attitudes and priorities have changed as people are trying to find that balance in their life. We feel badly when employees say they may only want to work three or four days. We need everyone working full-time to cover all the shifts.”

Meanwhile, Simply Delicious caterer Nancy McCulla is turning business away. With weddings back on the books, she says Sunday events are difficult for her to take on. “You have to give staff a day off, and usually we work really late on Saturdays. I work seven days a week and every single restaurant owner that I know is doing the work of three people.”

McCulla has turned to online hiring services for help, such as Indeed and Monster. “I scheduled two interviews last Monday. Neither one of them showed up. It’s very strange.”

“The workforce shortage has been a challenge for everyone,” said Prescott Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Sheri Heiney. “I hear the same concerns from my colleagues around the state.”

Margo Christensen, vice president of marketing and public relations for Ponderosa Hotel Management Services, which owns and manages five hotels in Arizona, including SpringHill Suites by Marriott Prescott and Residence Inn by Marriott Prescott, agrees. “We are having a very hard time finding people.”

Alondra Flores, general manager of Ponderosa’s Prescott properties, has been with the company for nine years. She says she’s never seen anything like today’s workforce situation. “This is really, really strange to me. The hotels used to receive 20 to 30 applications a week without advertising for applicants. I do know that I’ve never had that experience before where I don’t even get replies to my ads and if I do and we set up a meeting, they don’t show up for the interview.”

She says the hotels were able to keep their core staff and most of those in management positions through the pandemic. “We never actually closed or had to force a furlough, and for that we are blessed. But we’re struggling with finding housekeepers, or even front desk employees. It’s very tough and frustrating.”

Flores is regularly approving overtime requests and salaried workers are doing more. “One of the things we did internally was look at the people we did have who are working way more hours than they used to and provide a slight bump in pay to thank them.”

But, still, she knows employees are stretched. “I’m here today making beds and doing whatever I can to get us through the day. We wish people would want to work because we definitely have work for them.”

Heiney says the business community is looking at creative ways to attract and obtain a strong workforce again. “We’re partnering with HR directors on solutions as well.”

She points to a back-to-work incentive being implemented at Rosa’s Pizzeria on Gurley Street in Prescott. “Skyler Reeves has created a college scholarship fund for his employees,” she said. “Having a restaurant owner step outside the box like that is a really neat idea.”

“About six weeks ago, I got frustrated trying to out-compete other employers to fill jobs,” said Reeves. “I decided to look at the situation as a challenge, not an obstacle.”

The scholarship at his restaurant is available to benefit eligible employees who maintain an average of 32 hours of week while taking a full schedule of classes at Yavapai College. “It shows we are willing to reinvest in our employees and that speaks to the culture of our company. It gives employees something they can take with them forever and leaves them with a love and affinity for the company for a long time, hopefully referring their friends to come work for us.”

And, the investment is paying off. “I have to say I didn’t know what to expect, but it has raised the profile of Rosa’s in the community and spurred a ton of interest.”

The pizzeria owner has incorporated other ideas as well, such as investing in better equipment to make jobs easier. “I believe a better place to work will attract better employee,” he said.

In May, Governor Doug Ducey announced his plan to support Arizonans getting back to work and help employers fill the thousands of jobs available across the state. Beginning July 10, he says Arizona will no longer be taking the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation, and instead will offer bonuses to returning workers, along with child care support, educational opportunities and rental assistance.

“In Arizona, we’re going to use federal money to encourage people to work, instead of paying people not to work,” he said.

Through the Governor’s Back To Work program, Arizona will set aside $300 million of federal resources to offer a one-time bonus of $2,000 to eligible individuals who return to the workforce and get a full-time job, while those who return part-time will receive $1,000. The bonus will be awarded when the individual has left the unemployment insurance program and completed at least 10 weeks of work with an employer, and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

“We’re hopeful that when the governor’s order comes to pass, more people will sign up for work and be gainfully employed,” said Heiney. QCBN

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

Prescott Chamber Chief Focused on Membership

By Leave a Comment

Call it kismet. Somehow, the tumblers all clicked into place and the stars aligned, so much so that Sheri Heiney feels her new position as president and CEO of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce was meant to be.

“We have family in the Sedona area and it’s been our dream to move out West,” she said. “We have been visiting here for 25 years and love it.”

It was “just by the grace” that she noticed a position available in the Prescott Chamber in an online trade magazine.

“I told my husband ‘I’m going to throw my hat in there,’” she said. “I think it was just meant to be.”

Heiney beat out candidates from across the country, said Sanford Cohen, who headed the nationwide search for the new president and CEO to take over when David Maurer retired after more than 13 years as the Chamber leader.

“She was far and away the top choice of the board,” Cohen said. “Just her professionalism, her depth of experience and the ability to field questions answered showed us she was well-schooled in everything that a chamber of commerce does.”

Heiney was president of the Rochester, Michigan chamber for 16 years.

Cohen said it did not hurt that she is from his home state. “There is something to be said for the Midwestern work ethic. She hit the ground running with the staff and a set of goals. It is going to be a very exciting and optimistic year for Prescott. She has earned many awards for her work.”

During her leadership, the Rochester Regional Chamber was recognized in 2008 as the Outstanding Chamber of the Year in Michigan, and was honored as runner-up in 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2014. Heiney was also named the Michigan Chamber Professional of the Year for 2011 and 2014. The Rochester Regional Chamber was also named Non-Profit of the Year by Automation Alley in 2009.

Heiney and her husband, John, took their time driving West. They left Michigan on Dec. 23, arrived on Dec. 26 and found a place to live.

“On Friday, we were moving in,” she said. “This is the first time I have lived out of state.”

The couple has four children, ages 26, 24, 22 and 21. “They are independent and are following their dreams, which allows us to follow ours,” she said. “We are rediscovering each other after the kids left the house. It is really cool.”

They also have two spoiled Shih Tzus, Bella and Bailey. And John has accepted the position of community outreach manager for the City of Prescott.

“What is really special about Prescott is the tourism. Every time I am in the lobby of the visitors center, it is always packed,” she said.

The chamber she left has 1,000 members. Prescott has 860. She says she will be continuing to build membership.

“We are going to add some programs, listen to the needs of people and make those things happen,” she said. “We have a tremendous number of volunteers. I am very thankful for that.”

There have been only three CEOs in the last 47 years since the Prescott Chamber was founded.

“I have some big shoes to fill of someone who as been here so long,” she said.

She said David Maurer was eager to retire and was leaving on a cruise the day after her first official day.

“I am in my retirement place. I am not going anywhere anytime soon,” Heiney said, adding that she’s impressed by how friendly everyone is in Prescott.

In fact, when she returned to her car after her first day of work, there was a note on the windshield. Someone had seen her Michigan license plates and took the time to write a note to let her know they were from Michigan as well.

Heiney earned her degree in hospitality and tourism from the University of Michigan. She is also a licensed realtor and a certified business consultant.

“I love working with chamber members, business and community leaders. You get to wake up every day and every day is different,” she said. QCBN

By Patty McCormac, QCBN

 

 

 

Prescott Chamber Announces New Leader

By Leave a Comment

The Prescott Chamber of Commerce has hired a new CEO, Sheri L. Heiney, longtime President of the Rochester (MI) Regional Chamber of Commerce, effective January 3, 2017.

In her new role, Sheri will oversee the day to day activities of a thriving Chamber that has over 860 members, and manages numerous important community events, including an annual Christmas parade. The Prescott Chamber is located in historic downtown Prescott, and serves as a visitor center for this tourism destination in north central Arizona.

Sheri has served the Rochester Regional Chamber for 15 years. During that time, membership has doubled, and the Chamber has won multiple awards and accolades. During her leadership, the Rochester Regional Chamber was recognized in 2008 as the Outstanding Chamber of the Year in Michigan, and was honored as runner-up in 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2014. Mrs. Heiney was also named the Michigan Chamber Professional of the Year for 2011 and 2014. The Rochester Regional Chamber was also named Non-Profit of the Year by Automation Alley in 2009. The Rochester Regional Chamber has approximately 1,000 members and conducts more than 100 events per year, including the Hometown Christmas Parade, the largest Christmas parade in Michigan.

“As I look ahead to new opportunities in Prescott, I am delighted to begin working with a very enthusiastic, dedicated board, staff and community. For me, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” she said.

Sanford Cohen, Chairman-Elect of the Chamber Board and Chair of the Search Committee said “I am excited to have someone of Sheri’s Chamber experience coming to Prescott. We’ve only had three CEO’s in the last 47 years, so this is a unique opportunity. Dave Maurer has left some big shoes to fill, but I feel strongly that Sheri is up to the challenge!”

Sheri will replace former Prescott Chamber CEO David Maurer who announced his plans to retire at the end of 2016. He has served the Chamber as CEO since 2004.