Michigan Business Beat | Natalie Chmiko, Lake Superior Community Partnership, U.P. Growth Leadership

Chris Holman welcomes back Natalie Chmiko, Incoming CEO, LSCP, Lake Superior Community Partnership, Marquette, MI. Welcome back, Natalie. Remind the Michigan business community what Lake Superior Community Partnership is and does? As you step into the CEO role, what are your top priorities for sustaining and growing Marquette County’s economic momentum? How will your experience at Michigan Economic Development Corporation shape your approach to leading the Lake Superior Community Partnership? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ Lake Superior Community Partnership Announces Natalie Chmiko as Next Chief Executive Officer Marquette County resident and Michigan economic development leader to assume role following structured transition. MARQUETTE COUNTY - The Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP) today announced the selection of Natalie Chmiko as its next Chief Executive Officer. Chmiko, a Skandia resident and seasoned Michigan economic development professional, will begin a structured CEO-designate transition on April 20, 2026, working directly with outgoing CEO Christopher Germain before assuming full leadership responsibilities in May. Chmiko brings more than 12 years of economic development experience to the role, most recently serving as Senior Vice President of Culture and Collaborative Operations at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), where she oversaw strategy, organizational development, human resources, and other cross-functional operations. During her time at MEDC, she advanced from an entry-level analyst to a senior executive position, leading strategic initiatives, securing significant state and federal investment, and building collaborative teams that supported Michigan’s small business, manufacturing, and community development efforts. Germain, who has led LSCP since 2022, announced earlier this year that he would be stepping down voluntarily to relocate with his family. His decision set in motion a deliberate, board-led search process focused on identifying a leader who could sustain and build on the organization’s momentum. “I am so excited for Natalie to step in and continue the momentum we’ve built together at LSCP. The energy in this organization is real, and it isn’t going anywhere. Natalie’s depth of experience across Michigan’s economic development ecosystem, and her genuine connection to this community, means we’re in great hands. She will keep this work moving forward and find new ways to build on what our team and partners have accomplished.” - Christopher Germain, Outgoing LSCP Chief Executive Officer Chmiko and her family relocated to Marquette County in 2023, a decision she describes as intentional and rooted in a long-time love for the region. “My family and I have been drawn to this part of the U.P. for years. The people, the nature, and the sense of community is hard to find anywhere else. I am eager to get to work alongside the talented LSCP team and our incredible network of partners and investors. The organization is in a strong position, and I look forward to building on that by deepening relationships, enhancing what’s already working, and helping Marquette County continue to grow.”— Natalie Chmiko, Incoming LSCP Chief Executive Officer During the transition period, community members and partners will have ample opportunities to meet Natalie at LSCP events and through direct outreach. Partners and community members are encouraged to join LSCP at its Annual Dinner on April 16 at Northern Michigan University’s Northern Center, Natalie will be introduced ###