We are anticipating moving forward with our 2020 Annual Members meeting on October 22, 2020 but will remain flexible as requirements change as a result of COVID-19. MTMIC is pleased to announce that John Walsh, President of the Michigan Manufacturers Association will be our featured speaker this year.
John J. Walsh was named President & CEO of the Michigan Manufacturers Association (MMA) in January 2020. MMA is the state’s leading advocate dedicated to securing a prosperous future for Michigan manufacturers through effective advocacy, meaningful education and strategic business services. Before taking on the role as MMA’s leader, John served as the State Budget Director for Michigan where he was responsible for coordinating all aspects of the State’s $57 billion budget. Prior to that he served as Director of Strategic Policy for Governor Rick Snyder and for three terms in the Michigan House of Representatives. He was recognized by his peers as the most effective legislator in 2013 and as Legislator of the Year by MIRS News in 2014.
As Speaker Pro Tempore of the Michigan House, John led the legislative effort as part of the “Grand Bargain,” contributing to the successful conclusion of Detroit’s historic bankruptcy. A year later, he led negotiations on behalf of Governor Snyder to avoid a $3 billion bankruptcy facing Detroit Public Schools, resulting in the restoration of local control and a stable financial position for the district.
John previously served as an executive at Schoolcraft College where he was responsible for development, government and external relations, grants and related administrative and legal matters. He was also responsible for the College’s Business Development Center and served as Executive Director of the internationally recognized Schoolcraft College Culinary Arts program. Prior to joining Schoolcraft College, John was founder and principal with the law firm of Raymond, Walsh & Enwright, PC, specializing in mergers and acquisitions, finance and general corporate law. He had previously been a member of Lewis, White & Clay, PC, and was senior counsel with Unisys Corporation.
He received a Juris Doctorate from Wayne State University College of Law and a Bachelor of Arts in public policy analysis from James Madison College of Michigan State University. He is an Aspen Rodel Fellow and serves on numerous civic and philanthropic boards.
