Senior Vice President of Culture & Collaborative Operations at Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

As the Senior Vice President of Culture & Collaborative Operations, Natalie is responsible for overseeing the development and execution of organizational strategy and is accountable for implementing the organization’s cultural values. Over the last decade, Natalie has held various roles at MEDC, focused on growing Michigan exports, fostering rural development, connecting businesses with growth opportunities, and supporting manufacturers with adopting new technologies.

In her previous role as International Trade Director, she led a nationally recognized state export assistance program, connecting Michigan companies to resources and opportunities that foster international sales growth. Under her leadership, the Trade team facilitated $1.5 billion in export sales, equating to 6,962 Michigan jobs created. The International Trade team was the recipient of the 2017 President’s “E” Award which is the highest recognition any U.S. entity may receive for supporting export activity.

Prior to joining MEDC in 2014, Natalie was the Assistant Economic Developer at Saginaw Future Inc., supporting local business and community economic development projects. Natalie holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business from Saginaw Valley State University and is accredited as a NASBITE Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP). She serves on the Board of Directors of Michigan’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center. Natalie was appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce to serve as a board member for both the East & West Michigan District Export Councils and is the current President of the State International Development Organizations (SIDO).