Mike Paone

Background

About Mike Paone

Michael J. Paone, I.O.M.(Mike) serves as the Executive Vice President of the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry, the largest and most dynamic business organization in Will County. Throughout his career, Mr. Paone has collaborated with numerous businesses and organizations across the region, helping them enhance their visibility and improve their bottom line through a range of membership benefits and opportunities.As Vice President of Member Services, Mike played a pivotal role in growing the Chamber's membership base, bringing in over members and generating more than in revenue. He successfully spearheaded eight membership drives and introduced several new programs to benefit Chamber members.Previously, as Vice President of Government Affairs, Mike engaged deeply in legislative and community relations, organizing lobbying trips to the State Capitol and Washington, D.C, and strengthening relationships with local government. One of his proudest moments was assisting those in need during the Covid-19 pandemic.Mike co-founded several key initiatives, including the Joliet Area Young Professionals (JAYP), the African American Business Association (AABA), and the Joliet Region Food & Beverage Association (JRFBA). He also created two referral groups within the Chamber, known as Business Builders.In his current role, he oversees government affairs and membership while also serving as the ex-officio leader of the Chamber’s Ambassadors, a volunteer group of over 20 members. He also directs the Community Leadership School program for the Chamber.In recognition of his work, Mike was honored with the 2022 Distinguished Illinois Chamber of Commerce Executive of the Year Award – the Brann Award.Mike has held several leadership roles, including serving as a Regent for the U.S. Chamber Institute for Organization Management, where he graduated in 2008 with the IOM designation. He is a 2001 graduate of the Joliet Chamber Community Leadership School and has held various board positions, including past chair of Cornerstone Services, chair-elect of the United Way of Will County, and past chair of the Illinois Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (IACCE). He also serves on the boards of the Workforce Investment Board of Will County and the Joliet Township High School CEO program. Mike is an active member of the Joliet Kiwanis and Rotary clubs.Mike earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois. He currently resides in Shorewood with his wife, Carleen, and their two sons, Brandon and Alexander.