SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS (March 5, 2024) — The Illinois Chamber of Commerce announces two key additions to their legislative affairs team. Effective immediately, Keith Wheeler, has been appointed to the role of Executive Director of Government Affairs and Technology Council. Jordan Ryan is appointed as the Director of Legislative Affairs.
Wheeler recently joined the Chamber as Senior Legislative Affairs Advisor and brings his experience as a legislator who is adept at building pro-growth, pro-business relationships in both parties of the general assembly.
Jordan Ryan brings over twelve years of experience in the Illinois Legislature. Having begun his career under House Minority Leader Tom Cross and having served a decade on House Minority Leader Jim Durkin’s staff. Jordan was the House minority caucus Floor Manager, assisting the minority Floor Leader during debates and parliamentary procedures. He was effective in building and leveraging strong bipartisan relationships that facilitated effective policy development. Jordan also worked as a legislative analyst, focusing on labor, energy, and environmental issues.
The Chamber also announces that Clark Kaericher, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs for the Illinois Chamber, will be leaving his role to accept a position with a member company effective March 15. We wish Clark well in his new role and are thankful for his advocacy work during his time at the Chamber.
“I am thrilled at the opportunity to continue to develop and grow the Chamber legislative team,” said Wheeler. “I look forward to building on the vision of a pro-growth, pro-business, and pro-Illinois which is Chamber 2.0.”
“The Chamber is the pre-eminent voice of Illinois Business, and I am honored to be able to contribute to this strong legislative affairs team,” said Ryan. “I am excited for the future of the Illinois Chamber and for the opportunity to work with this great team.”
“These latest changes expand the reach of the Chamber legislative affairs team, making our eight-person team one of the strongest member organizations and Chamber in the state,” said Lou Sandoval, President and CEO of the Illinois Chamber. “Our focus will be to deliver value to our members and the businesses of the state who need a voice in our state capitol now more than ever.”
About the Illinois Chamber:
Founded in 1919, the Illinois Chamber of Commerce is an independent membership organization dedicated to fostering a vibrant and prosperous future for Illinois businesses. The Chamber is supported by contributions from a diverse group of businesses from across the state. Its membership reflects all components of Illinois’ economy, including manufacturing, financial services, transportation, technology, agriculture, mining, construction, utilities, and professional services, as well as other local chambers of commerce, trade groups, and membership organizations. The Chamber works closely with its members to support their success and the growth of the Illinois economy through programming and advocacy that promotes and protects the business climate in Illinois and expands economic opportunities for all.
