World Business Chicago Boosts Growth with New Board Leaders

By Hannah Lewis Updated Jan 14, 2026 Category News Read 4 min

World Business Chicago Welcomes New Board Leaders

World Business Chicago (WBC) has made a significant move by announcing the addition of three new members to its Board of Directors. These new board members bring an impressive array of experience from various sectors, including entrepreneurship, global finance, and professional services. Their collective knowledge is expected to contribute positively to Chicago's economic future, particularly as the city moves into an exciting new phase of growth.

Meet the New Board Members

The three newly appointed board members include:

Joe Flanagan

As the Chairman & CEO of Acquirent, Joe Flanagan brings a wealth of experience as an entrepreneur. Based in Chicago, he has successfully built and scaled several multi-million dollar businesses. Flanagan emphasizes the importance of relationship-building, talent development, and effective growth strategies, focusing on creating lasting companies and valuable job opportunities.

Ross Plagman

The Global Chief Financial Officer for Mars Snacking, Ross Plagman oversees financial strategies for one of the most recognized consumer brands worldwide. With over 20 years in global finance and operations, he possesses rich expertise that can guide corporate growth and enhance organizational leadership.

Jeff King

Jeff King serves as the Managing Partner of KPMG Chicago, where he leads a team that supports some of the region's most complex companies. With his extensive experience – spanning more than three decades – King brings insights into business transformation and innovation that can further enrich the board’s direction.

Quotes from the New Board Members

Joe Flanagan expressed his enthusiasm about joining World Business Chicago by stating, "Chicago is one of the best places in the country to build a company because the talent is deep and the customer base is real. I look forward to contributing an operator's perspective to Chicago 2050, helping drive business growth and strengthening our talent pipeline."

Ross Plagman echoed a similar sentiment, stating, "Chicago's role as a global business hub relies on strong execution and smart investments. I'm thrilled to support strategies that will attract capital and innovate throughout the region."

Jeff King also shared his perspective, saying, "Business leaders choose Chicago because it offers a thriving environment for global operations and innovation. It’s an honor to be part of World Business Chicago as we advance into the next era of growth."

World Business Chicago’s Role in Economic Development

World Business Chicago is the City’s designated economic development organization. Its mission revolves around fostering inclusive growth and creating job opportunities across the region. Collaborating closely with various partners, including the Mayor's Office and public and private sectors, WBC leads initiatives aimed at attracting and retaining businesses while supporting innovative developments.

Guided by the long-term vision outlined in Chicago 2050, World Business Chicago is actively executing strategies that promise measurable outcomes, including significant job creation and business attraction. The organization positions Chicagoland as a premier global destination for investment and talent, further underscoring Chicago's vibrant economic landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the new board members of World Business Chicago?

The new board members include Joe Flanagan, Ross Plagman, and Jeff King, all bringing extensive experience from various sectors.

What is the mission of World Business Chicago?

World Business Chicago strives to drive inclusive growth and job creation throughout the region, focusing on attracting and retaining businesses.

How does Chicago 2050 factor into WBC's initiatives?

Chicago 2050 is a long-term economic growth plan that guides WBC's efforts toward achieving significant outcomes such as job creation and business attraction.