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Invest Nashville is an innovative program aimed at fostering existing business and entrepreneurial growth throughout the Nashville region. Allan Closson, CEO of Turn Around Solutions and a member of the Chamber’s President’s Board of Advisors, created the concept to facilitate connections that open new business opportunities for companies on a local and regional basis.
Bridgestone Firestone North America Tires served as presenting company for the Invest Nashville event which took place Tuesday, March 23, at the main branch of the Nashville Public Library.
"This progam reflects the Chamber's strategic plan of fostering entrepreneurial growth and encouraging existing business in the Nashville region," said Jack Bovender, Jr., Chamber chairman and CEO of HCA.
Bridgestone Firestone has been a respected corporate headquarters in Nashville, playing a leading role in the community. One example of their role as a model citizen is their sponsorship of the Music City Bowl, a Chamber-affiliated organization. Bridgestone Firestone signed on with the Bowl last year, creating the Gaylord Hotels Music City Bowl Presented by Bridgestone and helping ensure the Bowl's success for years to come.
John Gamauf, president of consumer replacement tires, said local relationships are the key to redirecting outsourced funds to the local economy. "We believe in relationships," he said, "because people buy from people."
Gamauf and his management team focused on strategic sourcing, community involvement and how to build a successful supply program. In addition to Gamauf, speakers included Al Kase, executive director of purchasing; Jeff Eberhard, manager of strategic sourcing; Linda Osborne, administrative assistant retail and commercial operations; and Christine Karbowiak, vice president public affairs.
Bridgestone Firestone presented to an audience of 125, which included Chamber Board of Advisors members, Partnership 2010 investors and the Chamber's 2003 Misic City Future 50 and Hall of fame winners.
Bridgestone Firestone was formed in 1990 when Bridgestone U.S.A. merged with Firestone Tire and Rubber Company. Today, tire sales make up 75 percent of the company's annual revenue, with 2,300 company-owned stores and thousands of independent retailers.
The Chamber plans to host Invest Nashville quarterly. For more information, please contact Melinda Judd, Assistant Vice President of Membership and Marketing, at 743-3101 or mjudd@nashvillechamber.com.