Tempo Milwaukee has named Jennifer Dirks chief executive officer, the first in the organization’s history.
Earlier this year, the Tempo board of directors made the decision to fill its open leadership position with a CEO, rather than an executive director, to better reflect the high impact of the organization in the business community and position the organization for success in executing its mission to advocate, elevate and accelerate the role of executive women in the Milwaukee community.
“Tempo Milwaukee is more than a membership or networking organization; we are an organization committed to strengthening the role of women in the Milwaukee business community through dynamic programming, corporate partnerships, and mentoring opportunities,” said Linda Newberry-Ferguson, CEO of the Rehabilitation Hospital of Wisconsin and president of the Tempo board of directors. “Appointing a CEO to lead the organization more accurately reflects the role Tempo plays within Milwaukee’s business community. We believe Jennifer is the right person to represent this change.”
With the help of Spano Pratt Executive Search, a committee of members from the Tempo board of directors and past presidents conducted an extensive local and regional search to fill the role of CEO.
As CEO, Dirks will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the organization and will work closely with the board president, executive committee and board of directors in developing and implementing strategic direction. In collaboration with the many Tempo committees, Dirks will also lead the major and ongoing Tempo initiatives including the Mentor Awards, Leadership Event, Professional Development Programming, Women’s Affinity Alliance and Monthly Membership Program Meetings.
“I am drawn to this role and Tempo Milwaukee’s mission for a number of reasons, but most importantly because of its focus on furthering the impact of women in Milwaukee,” Dirks said. “I am intrigued with the idea of working alongside, learning from and collaborating with strong female leaders within the community and across all levels and industries. I believe women are each other’s greatest champions and any organization that supports this belief is one I am honored to be leading.”
Dirks’ first day as the leader of Tempo Milwaukee will be Aug. 25. Dirks has a background as a communications and public relations executive with more than 15 years of corporate and agency experience within business-to-business and business-to-consumer markets.
Tempo Milwaukee was established in 1975 and currently serves 275 members.
