Suzi Wirtz joins Illinois Park & Recreation Association as executive director
Illinois Park & Recreation Association will be welcoming Suzi Wirtz as its new executive director on Jan. 2.
Wirtz brings to our organization a wealth of experience as an association professional, with over 20 years of experience serving various industries and members. She has a strong background leading organizations through change and growth and has worked in membership, marketing, education, communications, and executive leadership positions. From small to large associations, local to international, professional membership to trade organizations, Suzi’s expertise and passion are in developing and maintaining strong relationships and creating compelling experiences for her audiences, with the ultimate goal of strengthening brands, increasing engagement and connection to the organization.
She most recently served as Vice President of Member Services for the Association of Retail and Consumer Professionals, a global organization, overseeing a 43% increase in membership during her tenure and high retention rates. Suzi served as CEO for the West Suburban Chamber of Commerce and in senior staff positions for the Association Forum of Chicagoland and the Women’s Council of REALTORS. She is the editorial adviser for two business books, The Art of Membership and Spike Your Brand ROI.
‘I am excited about this opportunity to be part of an organization that already has an outstanding reputation and is a leader in the industry,” Suzi said. “I want to thank the Board for their confidence and the staff for the warm welcome. I look forward to meeting all of the members soon and working together to continue to advance the profession.’
She holds the Institute of Organizational Management certification, a Master of Arts in English from DePaul University and a double major undergraduate degree in Marketing and English from Loras College. She lives in La Grange with her husband and three children.
“The IPRA board of directors is delighted to welcome Suzi to our team. With a wealth of experience in association management, she is committed to fostering relationships and collaborating with the Board and IPRA members to achieve the goals outlined in the association’s strategic plan,” said Lisa Sheppard, IPRA board chair. “We urge all members to reach out to Suzi and join us in extending a warm welcome as she becomes an integral part of supporting our professionals in the dynamic field of parks, recreation, and conservation.”
Established in 1944, the Illinois Park & Recreation Association serves over 3,000 park, recreation, and conservation professionals throughout the state, and is a national leader in providing premier education, networking, and resources. For more information about IPRA, its board and mission, visit www.ILipra.org.