Kauffman to exit NRBP this fall

Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) announced July 12 that Barbara Kauffman is stepping down as executive vice president and COO in the fall.

Kauffman has been with the NRBP for 34 years, working her way up from a project manager for the group’s predecessor organization, RNI, to the current roles she holds.

“We are grateful to Barbara for her many years of service and dedication to our members,” said Monica Slater Stokes, chair of the NRBP board of directors. “Barbara has made countless connections across industry sectors and established long-lasting partnerships that created many opportunities to grow and expand business.”

Chip Hallock, NRBP president and CEO, lauded Kauffman for her consistent efforts to support the Partnership’s members and her work to produce hundreds of high-quality events.

“Barbara has an extraordinary combination of intelligence, passion and work ethic that has served our members well,” said Hallock. “She has been a statewide resource for countless business acquaintances in helping to build their networks and careers – we can’t applaud Barbara enough and wish her well as she continues her civic engagement.”

Kauffman says her greatest accomplishment has been helping members make connections that fostered new business and opportunities.

“I enjoy the challenge of making a meaningful introduction and providing assistance through our wide network of member contacts,” said Kauffman. “I am fortunate to have members who are willing to use their networks to respond to other members and provide assistance.”

Kauffman intends to keep making those connections, even as she steps back from NRBP.

“I will be pursuing opportunities to continue my commitment to the City of Newark, in part through work at NRBP, the NJIT Martin Tuchman School, Rutgers Business School, and by continuing to serve on boards such as the University Hospital Foundation, the Newark Museum Business and Community Council, and more,” said Kauffman.