The Economic Council of Palm Beach County taps Michele Jacobs for President and CEO; the first female leader in the organization’s 45 year history. Jacobs’ replaces Michael DeBock, who joined the organization one year ago and has stepped down to accept a newly- created position with FPL. Jacobs joined the Economic Council in November of 2017 as Chief Strategy Officer; responsible for enhancing all aspects of the organization’s strategic priorities and implementation of these goals for the betterment of the organization.

“Michele’s strong skill set, deep roots and relationships within Palm Beach County and her innate ability to connect collaboratively with many different groups will serve her well in this new role and we couldn’t be more pleased with her promotion.” states H. William Perry, managing Shareholder for Gunster Law and Chairman for the Board of Directors of the Council. “Our sincere gratitude for the good work and service that Michael DeBock has given the Council as he in embarks on his new role. We wish him and his family all the best of luck.” Mr. Perry adds.

Prior to joining the Economic Council, Jacobs, 51, spent 10 years as the Corporate Director of Marketing and Operations for The Forbes Company’s Florida portfolio of shopping centers. Her responsibilities included all aspects of marketing and communication, events and public relations, operations and facilities management as well supporting corporate branding and leasing initiatives. Her volunteer service for the Palm Beach County community currently includes sitting on the Board of Directors for The Honda Classic; as Grants Chair and Executive Committee member, American Heart Association Board of Directors, Cultural Council of Palm Beach County Board of Directors and the Quantum House Board of Directors.

Jacobs received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from The University of Florida. She considers herself a Florida native, having grown up in Palm Beach County. She resides in Palm Beach Gardens with her husband and son.

Established in 1975, the Economic Council of Palm Beach County is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that supports an open and collaborative relationship between the public and private sectors in Palm Beach County. The Council is a social, economic and political voice for business at the county and state level which lobbies for policies that help business prosper. Key current initiatives the Council is focused on includes affordable housing solutions, education at the K-12 and higher education levels, infrastructure and mobility solutions and leadership in the public sector. The Council’s members, along with key community leaders, will travel to Charlotte, N.C. in October to study the market’s successes related to the Council’s priorities. As this work continues, Jacobs’ leadership and communication style will further these initiatives.