Skip to content
  • About Us
  • News & Insights
  • Member Directory
  • Job Board
  • Sign In
  • Join
Boston Chamber
  • Events
        • Events

          • Overview
          • Events Calendar
          • Chamber Awards
        • ...
          Talent
          Massachusetts Apprentice Network Anniversary Celebration

          Join the Massachusetts Apprentice Network for the one-year anniversary of its launch.

          03/27/2023

          9:30am - 11:00am

          Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce

          arrow-go
          Read More
        • ...
          BIMA
          BIMA: Gaming’s Present & Future: Creativity, Attention, and Social Connection

          This event will explore why in-game advertising is becoming the next big advertising channel and how companies can tap into the gaming ad space.

          03/28/2023

          5:30pm - 7:30pm

          Mediahub

          arrow-go
          Read More
        • ...
          Events
          2023 Government Affairs Forum: Ronald J. Mariano, Massachusetts Speaker of the House

          Thank you for joining us for our second Government Affairs forum of the year that featured Ronald J. Mariano, Massachusetts Speaker of the House.

          03/30/2023

          9:45am - 11:00am

          Colonnade Hotel

          arrow-go
          Read More
  • Learning & Development
        • Learning & Development

          • Overview
          • Call for Nominations
          • Resources
        • EQ to Elevate Workplace Well-being

          Designed for mid-level managers and supervisors, this new certificate program addresses workplace well-being through unique, innovative, and actionable methods.

          Read More
          Transformational DEI Certificate

          Join our Transformational DEI Certificate! Our comprehensive learning & development offerings are designed to connect and grow strong leaders who lead both inside and out of the office.

          Read More
          Women’s Leadership Program

          Our Women’s Leadership Program enables you to take your leadership to the next level by arming you with the most in-demand leadership toolkit.

          Read More
          How to Be an LGBTQIA+ Ally in the Workplace

          Expand your DEI professional development with a virtual workshop focused specifically on LGBTQIA+ identities and inclusion.

          Read More
  • Economic Inclusion
        • Economic Inclusion

          • Overview
          • Economic Inclusion Committee
          • Fierce Urgency of Now Festival
          • Pacesetters
          • Resources
        • ...
          Economic Inclusion
          Economic Inclusion

          Our Economic Inclusion Committee provides strategic support around research, policies, and programs that are focused on building equal opportunity.

          arrow-go
          Read More
        • ...
          Economic Inclusion
          Pacesetters

          We are developing an ecosystem of corporations and partners with the influence and buying power to transform economic inclusion for minority business enterprises (MBEs).

          arrow-go
          Read More
        • ...
          Fierce Urgency of Now Festival
          2023 Fierce Urgency of Now Festival

          The Fierce Urgency of Now Festival brings Boston’s diverse young professionals together with business leaders, organizations and their peers to build connection, advance careers and ignite positive change.

          09/12/2023 -

          09/15/2023

          Greater Boston

          arrow-go
          Read More
  • Policy & Impact
        • Policy & Impact

          • Overview
          • Leadership Councils
          • Amicus Advisory Board
        • GET INVOLVED IN OUR POLICY FOCUS AREAS

          Business Climate
          Read More
          Climate & Energy
          Read More
          Health Care
          Read More
          Housing & Development
          Read More
          Talent
          Read More
          Transportation
          Read More
  • Our Networks
        • GBCC’s Networks

          • Overview
        • OUR NETWORKS

          City Awake

          City Awake empowers young professionals in a variety of ways that encourages these rising leaders to stay invested in the region’s future success.

          Read More
          BIMA

          BIMA (the Boston Interactive Media Association) serves a vibrant community of like-minded professionals from agencies, brands, publishers, and ad-tech companies with business interests in the New England market.

          Read More
          Women’s Network

          For more than 25 years, the Chamber’s Women’s Network has connected female professionals of all background and career levels. Today, our Women’s Network is the largest in New England, strengthening the professional networks of women each year.

          Read More
          MITX

          Through MITX (the Massachusetts Innovation and Technology Exchange), we’re building valuable connections between the people and ideas behind technology and its impact on the future of customer experiences, all to create a community that’s finding tomorrow’s solutions together.

          Read More
          Pacesetters

          We are developing an ecosystem of corporations and partners with the influence and buying power to transform economic inclusion for minority business enterprises (MBEs).

          Read More
          Small Business

          We support small business through public policy initiatives, events designed to connect small businesses in Greater Boston to their peers and established business leaders, professional development offerings, and free small business advising.

          Read More
  • Membership
        • Membership

          • Overview
          • Membership Benefits
          • Membership Levels
          • Member Stories
          • Request a Meeting
          • Join Today
        • Our Impact
        • About Us
          Our Impact

          Explore our mission and values to better understand how we are leading the business community forward.

        • Membership Directory
        • Membership Directory
          Not sure if you’re a member?

          Our member directory is your resource to discover, connect, and engage with Boston’s businesses from every industry and sector.

        • For our members

          • Member Resources
          • Member Deals
          • Sponsorship Opportunities
          • Connect with your Member Services Rep
          • Sign In
  • join
Bostonchamber
Boston Chamber
  • Events
        • Events

          • Overview
          • Events Calendar
          • Chamber Awards
        • ...
          Talent
          Massachusetts Apprentice Network Anniversary Celebration

          Join the Massachusetts Apprentice Network for the one-year anniversary of its launch.

          03/27/2023

          9:30am - 11:00am

          Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce

          arrow-go
          Read More
        • ...
          BIMA
          BIMA: Gaming’s Present & Future: Creativity, Attention, and Social Connection

          This event will explore why in-game advertising is becoming the next big advertising channel and how companies can tap into the gaming ad space.

          03/28/2023

          5:30pm - 7:30pm

          Mediahub

          arrow-go
          Read More
        • ...
          Events
          2023 Government Affairs Forum: Ronald J. Mariano, Massachusetts Speaker of the House

          Thank you for joining us for our second Government Affairs forum of the year that featured Ronald J. Mariano, Massachusetts Speaker of the House.

          03/30/2023

          9:45am - 11:00am

          Colonnade Hotel

          arrow-go
          Read More
  • Learning & Development
        • Learning & Development

          • Overview
          • Call for Nominations
          • Resources
        • EQ to Elevate Workplace Well-being

          Designed for mid-level managers and supervisors, this new certificate program addresses workplace well-being through unique, innovative, and actionable methods.

          Read More
          Transformational DEI Certificate

          Join our Transformational DEI Certificate! Our comprehensive learning & development offerings are designed to connect and grow strong leaders who lead both inside and out of the office.

          Read More
          Women’s Leadership Program

          Our Women’s Leadership Program enables you to take your leadership to the next level by arming you with the most in-demand leadership toolkit.

          Read More
          How to Be an LGBTQIA+ Ally in the Workplace

          Expand your DEI professional development with a virtual workshop focused specifically on LGBTQIA+ identities and inclusion.

          Read More
  • Economic Inclusion
        • Economic Inclusion

          • Overview
          • Economic Inclusion Committee
          • Fierce Urgency of Now Festival
          • Pacesetters
          • Resources
        • ...
          Economic Inclusion
          Economic Inclusion

          Our Economic Inclusion Committee provides strategic support around research, policies, and programs that are focused on building equal opportunity.

          arrow-go
          Read More
        • ...
          Economic Inclusion
          Pacesetters

          We are developing an ecosystem of corporations and partners with the influence and buying power to transform economic inclusion for minority business enterprises (MBEs).

          arrow-go
          Read More
        • ...
          Fierce Urgency of Now Festival
          2023 Fierce Urgency of Now Festival

          The Fierce Urgency of Now Festival brings Boston’s diverse young professionals together with business leaders, organizations and their peers to build connection, advance careers and ignite positive change.

          09/12/2023 -

          09/15/2023

          Greater Boston

          arrow-go
          Read More
  • Policy & Impact
        • Policy & Impact

          • Overview
          • Leadership Councils
          • Amicus Advisory Board
        • GET INVOLVED IN OUR POLICY FOCUS AREAS

          Business Climate
          Read More
          Climate & Energy
          Read More
          Health Care
          Read More
          Housing & Development
          Read More
          Talent
          Read More
          Transportation
          Read More
  • Our Networks
        • GBCC’s Networks

          • Overview
        • OUR NETWORKS

          City Awake

          City Awake empowers young professionals in a variety of ways that encourages these rising leaders to stay invested in the region’s future success.

          Read More
          BIMA

          BIMA (the Boston Interactive Media Association) serves a vibrant community of like-minded professionals from agencies, brands, publishers, and ad-tech companies with business interests in the New England market.

          Read More
          Women’s Network

          For more than 25 years, the Chamber’s Women’s Network has connected female professionals of all background and career levels. Today, our Women’s Network is the largest in New England, strengthening the professional networks of women each year.

          Read More
          MITX

          Through MITX (the Massachusetts Innovation and Technology Exchange), we’re building valuable connections between the people and ideas behind technology and its impact on the future of customer experiences, all to create a community that’s finding tomorrow’s solutions together.

          Read More
          Pacesetters

          We are developing an ecosystem of corporations and partners with the influence and buying power to transform economic inclusion for minority business enterprises (MBEs).

          Read More
          Small Business

          We support small business through public policy initiatives, events designed to connect small businesses in Greater Boston to their peers and established business leaders, professional development offerings, and free small business advising.

          Read More
  • Membership
        • Membership

          • Overview
          • Membership Benefits
          • Membership Levels
          • Member Stories
          • Request a Meeting
          • Join Today
        • Our Impact
        • About Us
          Our Impact

          Explore our mission and values to better understand how we are leading the business community forward.

        • Membership Directory
        • Membership Directory
          Not sure if you’re a member?

          Our member directory is your resource to discover, connect, and engage with Boston’s businesses from every industry and sector.

        • For our members

          • Member Resources
          • Member Deals
          • Sponsorship Opportunities
          • Connect with your Member Services Rep
          • Sign In
  • join
  • About Us
  • News & Insights
  • Member Directory
  • Job Board
  • Sign In
  • Join
Future of Work Event Logo

Future of Work: Downtown Revitalization

June 16, 2022 10:00 am – 11:00 am High Street Place – Boston, MA

Event Details

  • Thank you for joining us for our third Future of Work event of the year which discussed the revitalization of downtown Boston.

Tickets

  • FREE for Members & Non-Members

Jump to page section

  • Overview
  • Speakers
  • Sponsor
  • Location

Downtown Revitalization


As more people return to work, either in-person or with hybrid schedules, it’s no secret that small businesses and restaurants are trying to navigate how to engage and attract locals to travel downtown. Over the last two years there have been several hurdles with shifting foot-traffic to online shopping and events, tighter budgets due to a number of circumstances, and a change in household attractions. But with change comes new opportunities.

This discussion focused on how Greater Boston is growing, adapting, and envisioning downtown revitalization through planning initiatives and enhancing consumer experiences. We touched on topics such as design innovation, trendy experiences, and small business resources.

ABOUT FUTURE OF WORK

Offering expert, timely perspectives, the “Future of Work” series presents the future now: how business and government can and should recognize and act on the innovation, agility, and empathy required to support our vibrant, diverse workforce and communities, bolstering the region’s competitive edge in the global marketplace.

This was a FREE event. Plus, all attendees received a $25 gift card to use at any vendor located in the High Street Place Food Hall!

Questions?

Luz Arregoces
Luz Arregoces

Director, Programs

Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce

Email Luz

Speakers

James Rooney
James E. Rooney

President & CEO, Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce

James E. Rooney is president and chief executive officer of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, one of the region’s leading business associations. Under…Read more
James E. Rooney is president and chief executive officer of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, one of the region’s leading business associations.

Under Rooney’s guidance, the Boston Chamber has become the leading voice of the business community on public policy issues, weighing in on important matters such as our region’s public transportation infrastructure, economic mobility, health care costs, workforce development and policy regarding our state’s competitiveness. In addition, Rooney has focused on broadening the Chamber’s membership, including introducing new programs and initiatives designed to attract and retain next generation leaders, minority-owned and small businesses.

Prior to joining the Chamber in 2015, Rooney was executive director of the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority for nearly 15 years, overseeing the development and construction of the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center (BCEC) and leading the management teams of four MCCA owned facilities in Massachusetts. Before moving to the MCCA in 2001, Rooney served two years as Chief of Staff to Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino, chairing the Mayor’s cabinet and playing a critical role in all aspects of city governance including education, public safety, public works and transportation. He began his public career at the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, the nation’s fourth largest transit system, where he spent 18 years, starting as a track laborer and ending as Deputy General Manager. He also served one year as the MBTA’s Acting General Manager during a gubernatorial transition. During the 1990s, Rooney served in senior positions at the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority and the Central Artery Project, Boston’s $15 billion “Big Dig” highway project.

Rooney has served in leadership positions on several boards of directors and currently sits on professional and non-profit boards including the Professional Convention Management Association’s (PCMA) North American Advisory Board/Mexico Tourism Board, the Association of Chambers of Commerce Executives (ACCE), The Partnership, Inc., and the Boston Private Industry Council (PIC).

Rooney has been recognized many times throughout his career for both professional and civic contributions including, a PCMA Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to the global meetings industry and a City of Boston Lifetime Achievement Award for leadership and advocacy for immigrant advancement and diversity. In 2018, Rooney was named one of Boston’s Top 10 Most Influential People by Boston Magazine, and one of the “Power 50” executives who made the biggest impact on Greater Boston’s business community and the region’s overall economy by the Boston Business Journal.

Rooney grew up in South Boston and attended the prestigious Boston Latin School, graduating as president of his class. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Harvard College and attended the Boston University Graduate School of Management.

Kishore Varanasi

Principal/Director of Urban Design, CBT Architects

Kishore Varanasi is an urban designer, strategist, and educator who specializes in developing authentic design solutions for cities at all scales that address human…Read more
Kishore Varanasi is an urban designer, strategist, and educator who specializes in developing authentic design solutions for cities at all scales that address human connection, social equity, and climate resilience. For 25 years, Kishore has worked to shape cities and communities globally through sustainable and holistic solutions in both the public and private sectors. Kishore’s innovative contributions to communities stem from his ability to inspire creative collaborations among individuals, governments, and businesses while simultaneously creating fresh perspectives and approaches to sustainable city-building and living. As a principal and Director of Urban Design at Boston-based CBT, his recent work includes the Masdar City Master Plan, the Blueway at the New England Aquarium, Cambridge Crossing, Boston University Master Plan, Suffolk Downs Master Plan, Hudayriyat Island Master Plan, Bhavani Islands Master Plan, The Riverline in Buffalo, NY, and Abu Dhabi Climate Interventions.

Kishore is a regular critic and teacher at various institutions including MIT, Harvard University, Yale University and the Boston Architectural College (BAC). He serves on the Van Alen Institute Climate Council, BAC and Boston Harbor Now Board of Trustees, and Emerald Network Board of Advisors. Kishore’s work has been recognized by various awards and organizations including the American Institute of Architects, Rethinking the Future, World Architecture News and Urban Land Institute.

See on LinkedInarrow-go
Lauren Johnson

Marketplace Manager, High Street Place Food Hall

Lauren began her career in hospitality in Saratoga Springs, New York and made Boston her home in 2010. Before joining Rockhill Management as the Marketplace Manager…Read more
Lauren began her career in hospitality in Saratoga Springs, New York and made Boston her home in 2010. Before joining Rockhill Management as the Marketplace Manager of High Street Place, she helped successfully launch a number of Boston based start-ups in roles that highlighted her experience in marketing & events project management. Colleagues and friends refer to Lauren as a human Zagat, as she is a go-to resource for dining recommendations in Boston and dozens of other cities. Lauren is looking reshape Boston’s dining experience and build community.

See on LinkedInarrow-go
Tiffani Faison

Chef and Restaurateur, Big Heart Hospitality

Chef and Restaurateur Tiffani Faison has made a name for herself nationwide for her dynamic personality, culinary prowess, and fierce work ethic. Under Big Heart…Read more
Chef and Restaurateur Tiffani Faison has made a name for herself nationwide for her dynamic personality, culinary prowess, and fierce work ethic. Under Big Heart Hospitality, her Boston based restaurant group, she creates restaurants that are warm, inspired and instantly loveable. Tiffani is a rising star on The Food Network. In 2022, she won Season 3 of Tournament of Champions, placing first among 32 of the world’s greatest chefs. She serves as a judge on Chopped, Guy’s Grocery Games and has co-hosted Beat Bobby Flay. Tiffani is on the Board of Directors for Women Chefs and Restaurateurs and Boston Alliance of Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Youth, and was appointed to The Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Restaurant Promotion Commission for her commitment to the state’s restaurant business. Since the opening of Sweet Cheeks Q in 2011 where Tiffani blew Boston away with her Texas style barbecue, she has kept diners on their toes, unafraid to shatter expectations about what she might do next. There is Fool’s Errand and its snack forward menu; Orfano with subversive Italian American offerings, Dive Bar, riffing on both Southern and New England seafood; Tenderoni’s, serving old school pizza and grinders, and Bubble Bath, where champagne brilliantly meets hot dogs and popcorn. Marking her many culinary achievements, the James Beard Foundation has nominated Tiffani as “Best Chef: Northeast” four times (2018, 2019, 2020 and 2022) and Boston magazine awarded her “Best Chef: General Excellence” (2016). The Boston Business Journal has twice named Tiffani to its “Power 50” list; The Boston Globe named Big Heart Hospitality as “Restaurateurs of the Year,” and Eater named Tiffani “Empire Builder of the Year.”

See on LinkedInarrow-go
Dustin Sarnoski

Senior Vice President, Head of Global Realty, Finance, State Street

Dustin C. Sarnoski is the Head of Global Realty and the President of SSB Realty, LLC. He is responsible for State Street’s ~ 6M square foot operational real estate…Read more
Dustin C. Sarnoski is the Head of Global Realty and the President of SSB Realty, LLC. He is responsible for State Street’s ~ 6M square foot operational real estate portfolio which consists of office space and data centers, and an operating P&L in excess of $400M annually. Additionally, Dustin leads the development and implementation of State Street’s sustainability goals, including Science-Based Targets for carbon reduction, as well as water and waste reduction programs. Additionally, Dustin serves on several internal executive committees, including State Street’s Executive Corporate Responsibility committee. Previously, he served as in-house senior legal counsel at State Street, with responsibility for legal counsel related to State Street’s global real estate footprint. Prior to joining State Street in 2007, Dustin was an Associate Attorney at Bingham McCutchen, LLP, practicing all aspects of real estate law and transactional environmental law. Dustin is a graduate of Amherst College (Bachelor of Arts – Chemistry), and Vermont Law School (Juris Doctor – Environmental Law concentration). He is a member in good standing of the Massachusetts Bar. Dustin currently serves on the Board of Trustees for St. Mary’s Center for Women and Children, located in Boston, Massachusetts.

FAQs

  • WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

    An interest in connecting with professionals and learning about Greater Boston’s downtown revitalization. Oh, and don’t forget business cards!

  • WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

    Please come dressed for your day!

  • WHEN SHOULD I ARRIVE?

    Registration & networking begins at 9:30 a.m.

Sponsor

Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA

High Street Place

100 High St, Boston, MA 02110

Get Directions

 

The Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce encourages persons with disabilities to participate, and engage fully, in its programs and events.

If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation, including but not limited to, listening devices, closed captioning, large print, wheelchair access, allergies and environmental sensitivities, or if you have any questions about the venue, event format, or virtual platform, please contact us at [email protected].

265 Franklin Street
Suite 1701
Boston, MA 02110
Get Directions
Contact us
  • Events
  • Learning & Development
  • Economic Inclusion
  • Policy & Impact
  • Our Networks
  • Membership
  • join
  • About Us
  • News & Insights
  • Member Directory
  • Job Board
  • Sign In
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions

© 2022 Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved.

Popular Resources

  • News & Insights  
  • Member Resources  
  • Small Business  
Close