a group of business leaders dedicated to improving their businesses through networking and sharing management philosophies and ideas.
The BEA is a social group. We love to get together. Our organization meets twice a month as a group and one on one any time we can. We meet once a month at the East Bank Club in Chicago. Our second meeting of the month is always somewhere new.
The BEA is filled with a wealth of knowledge. There are literally hundreds of years of experience between our members. Our members are eager to offer advice and share their knowledge when they can. We also strive to continue to learn by inviting guest speakers and experts to present new and innovative ideas.
Relationships drive the BEA. Our members form lasting connections. That is evident in the years our members stay involved. 60% of our membership has been in the BEA for over 10 years! We even have three-member companies that are second-generation members. This speaks to the deep connections that are fostered in the BEA.
I appreciate the long term business relationships and camaraderie.
The Roscoe Company
Our organization has a dual purpose: To facilitate the exchange of business and leads among our members and to learn and share business insight with each other.
October
08oct6:45 am9:00 amBEA at East Bank Club: Mini-MastermindBEA at East Bank Club
You’re invited to the next BEA breakfast at the East Bank Club, where we’ll be hosting a special mini-mastermind session! This is your chance to connect with fellow members in
You’re invited to the next BEA breakfast at the East Bank Club, where we’ll be hosting a special mini-mastermind session! This is your chance to connect with fellow members in a collaborative environment, as we come together to tackle the real business challenges you’re facing. Whether you’re seeking fresh ideas, feedback, or solutions, this is a great opportunity to get support from a diverse group of professionals who can offer valuable insights. Join us for a productive morning of networking, brainstorming, and problem-solving over a delicious breakfast!
October 8, 2024 6:45 am – 9:00 am(GMT-05:00)
East Bank Club
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22oct11:30 am1:30 pmExclusive Networking Lunch: BEA/SIL
Join Us for an Exclusive Networking Lunch Hosted by the Strategic Introduction League (SIL) and the Business Executives Association (BEA)! Join us for a special networking lunch at the Blossom Cafe from
Join Us for an Exclusive Networking Lunch Hosted by the Strategic Introduction League (SIL) and the Business Executives Association (BEA)!
Join us for a special networking lunch at the Blossom Cafe from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM on October 22nd. This is the perfect setting to expand your professional circle, explore new opportunities, or simply enjoy great company and delicious food. Come, network, and collaborate with like-minded professionals in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Let’s connect, share insights, and have a fantastic time together. We can’t wait to see you there!
more
October 22, 2024 11:30 am – 1:30 pm(GMT-05:00)
Blossom Cafe
8349 W Lawrence Ave
November
Matt Nielsen is a third-generation steward, shareholder, director and executive for Nielsen-
Massey Vanillas Inc., Managing Director of Nielsen-Massey Vanillas International BV and
Managing Director of Nielsen Real Estate BV. His current operational responsibilities include
overseeing the company’s European activities. For 20+ years Matt also had responsibility for
the company’s worldwide operations, retail and foodservice sales and strategic initiatives.
In addition to serving on the Nielsen-Massey board of directors, he is currently a Director for
Graziano Brothers, a family held producer of specialty sausage products and specialty retailer
and distributor located in Des Moines, IA.
In addition, Matt serves as Vice President – Treasurer and Director of the Nielsen-Massey
Foundation; Mentor, Panelist and Executive-In-Residence in Kellogg’s John L. Ward Center for
Family Enterprises; advisor to start up Sunday Night Foods; and a member of the Loyola
University Family Business Center.
He is a past Director and Officer of the Specialty Food Association; The French Pastry School’s
Curriculum Advisory Board; the Alliance for Illinois Manufacturing; and an advisor for three
specialty food startup companies – Droga Chocolates, Rare Bird Preserves and Two Fold.
Matt is a graduate of Gettysburg College in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania and holds two Certificates
of Professional Achievement in Family Business Leadership and Governance from Northwestern
University’s Kellogg School of Management, Evanston, Illinois.
Matt lives in Lake Bluff, Illinois with his wife, Amy, and their son and newborn daughter. In his
free time, Matt enjoys spending time with his family, exploring the outdoors, boating,
skiing/snowboarding, riding his motorcycle and cooking, particularly authentic, competition
BBQ.
12nov6:45 am9:00 amFounders’ Day 2024
Join us in celebrating the BEA’s 83rd Founders Day! We will feature guest speaker Matt Nielsen from Nielsen-Massey, at this special event! We’re excited to honor our legacy and reflect
Join us in celebrating the BEA’s 83rd Founders Day! We will feature guest speaker Matt Nielsen from Nielsen-Massey, at this special event! We’re excited to honor our legacy and reflect on our journey with an inspiring keynote from Matt, who will share insights on his experience leading a family-owned business and driving innovation in the specialty food industry. It’s a great opportunity to connect with fellow members, learn from an industry leader, and celebrate the continued growth of our community. Don’t miss out on this remarkable evening of networking, celebration, and inspiration! Invite guest to join us. All are welcome. Breakfast is free for members and $50 for guest. Guests can register below.
Matt Nielsen is a third-generation steward, shareholder, director and executive for Nielsen-
Massey Vanillas Inc., Managing Director of Nielsen-Massey Vanillas International BV and
Managing Director of Nielsen Real Estate BV. His current operational responsibilities include
overseeing the company’s European activities. For 20+ years Matt also had responsibility for
the company’s worldwide operations, retail and foodservice sales and strategic initiatives.
In addition to serving on the Nielsen-Massey board of directors, he is currently a Director for
Graziano Brothers, a family held producer of specialty sausage products and specialty retailer
and distributor located in Des Moines, IA.
In addition, Matt serves as Vice President – Treasurer and Director of the Nielsen-Massey
Foundation; Mentor, Panelist and Executive-In-Residence in Kellogg’s John L. Ward Center for
Family Enterprises; advisor to start up Sunday Night Foods; and a member of the Loyola
University Family Business Center.
He is a past Director and Officer of the Specialty Food Association; The French Pastry School’s
Curriculum Advisory Board; the Alliance for Illinois Manufacturing; and an advisor for three
specialty food startup companies – Droga Chocolates, Rare Bird Preserves and Two Fold.
Matt is a graduate of Gettysburg College in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania and holds two Certificates
of Professional Achievement in Family Business Leadership and Governance from Northwestern
University’s Kellogg School of Management, Evanston, Illinois.
Matt lives in Lake Bluff, Illinois with his wife, Amy, and their son and newborn daughter. In his
free time, Matt enjoys spending time with his family, exploring the outdoors, boating,
skiing/snowboarding, riding his motorcycle and cooking, particularly authentic, competition
BBQ.
more
November 12, 2024 6:45 am – 9:00 am(GMT-05:00)
East Bank Club
Interested in attending a BEA event? You may join us as a guest to see what we are all about. Click the button below to attend as a guest.