Orange County NC Website
6 <br /> Page 2 of 2 Wendy Smith <br /> At my core, I am a business person and approach my job with that mindset. I believe all <br /> business must have a mission to follow in order to be successful. The non-profit model appeals <br /> to me because of the focus on mission. However, at the end of the day, I will look at the bottom <br /> line to ensure profitability and success. This viewpoint is an asset to the commission. This board <br /> must have creative visionaries as well as members who consider the bottom line and financial <br /> health of the organization. My skill set actually offers both. My business mind offers a very <br /> functional and important viewpoint. <br /> Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest <br /> (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? <br /> Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board <br /> Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board <br /> As a native to Orange County, I have witnessed first hand the value that the towns assets offer <br /> to the tourism sector. Each town, Chapel Hill, Carrboro and Hillborough has its unique character <br /> and offers visitors to our county a wide range of experiences. As a former business owner, I <br /> know firsthand, the impact tourism has on our local economy. My business was one that locals <br /> often brought their out-of-town guest to visit. Through these visits, my staff and I would often <br /> learn of other popular attractions. Consequently, we became experts in recommending other <br /> points of interests to guests. I appreciate the impact that tourism has on our local economy and <br /> believe the messaging and services that the Visitors Bureau provides is crucial to the success of <br /> our local businesses. Now that I work for The ArtsCenter, I have a unique understanding of the <br /> our local business landscape having been part of the for-profit sector and now the non-profit <br /> sector. <br /> Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board <br /> I believe that no business should live in a bubble. The key to success is to ensure your business <br /> is an active part of the greater community. I would like to bring both the perspective of The <br /> ArtsCenter and greater arts community to this board. I will gain valuable insight from fellow board <br /> members that I can then bring back to The ArtsCenter. Building community builds better <br /> businesses and drives more robust economic growth. <br /> How would your participation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? <br /> As mentioned before, my unique background, including both for-profit and non-profit experiences <br /> would offer a diverse viewpoint. Also, as a local, I have a good understanding of the town and <br /> gown relationship. Understanding how the businesses and the university both offer value and <br /> interest to our visitors is important when allocating funds for marketing. I excel at seeing the <br /> forest for the trees which is crucial when balancing promotions for three towns, multiple <br /> business districts, the university and many outlying attractions. <br /> Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest <br /> (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? <br /> Boards/Commissions appointments: <br /> Other Comments: <br /> This application was current on: 1/7/2024 4:20:31 PM Date Printed: 1/12/2024 <br />