Best practices on approaching the US market and what tools and connections are available to support you.
What is it?
Delegates from the City of Mentor, including local companies and legal professionals will provide advice and guidance on the best practices on approaching the US market and what tools and connections are available to support you.
What can I expect
You’ll get a 20 minute slot with one of the US delegates, where you can access bespoke, 1-2-1 advice and guidance on how to approach the US market. Please let us know if you would prefer to join your 1-2-1 online by contacting events.edinburgh@thisiscodebase.com.
The City of Mentor is a manufacturing, professional, and retail economic hub located just outside Cleveland, Ohio, USA. With their connections with numerous entities in the United States, particularly in healthcare, aerospace, and precision manufacturing, the City of Mentor’s concierge-based approach can provide many benefits for small to medium sized firms looking to explore connections and investment opportunities in the North American market.
Kevin D. Malecek, Director of Economic Development and International Trade for Mentor, Ohio
Kevin D. Malecek is currently the Director of Economic Development and International Trade for Mentor, Ohio, overseeing economic growth and business initiatives for a large manufacturing and retail hub. His achievements include attracting major businesses like Trader Joe’s and Meijer, as well as fostering international trade relationships, particularly with the UK. Previously, Malecek served as Lake County Commissioner and President/CEO of the Mentor Area Chamber of Commerce, where he revitalized the Chamber's finances, introduced new programs, and initiated a Veterans' Discount program. With a background in academia, he directed corporate partnerships at Case Western Reserve University and holds various advisory roles in organizations focused on energy, banking, and global leadership. Malecek holds a Master of Arts in Government and Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and History from American University, and he has lectured at several universities.
Ken Filipiak, City Manager/Chief Executive Officer, City of Mentor, Ohio, USA
Kenneth J. Filipiak is in his fifteenth year as the Chief Executive Officer for the city of Mentor, Ohio, a community of 50,000 in the Northeast portion of the state. Mr. Filipiak has continuously served Ohio cities in this same capacity for the last 29 years. He is a graduate of Georgetown University and holds a Master of Public Administration degree from Bowling Green State University. Mr. Filipiak has served in top leadership positions for numerous statewide associations dedicated to city administration, public safety, and regional government. He has a long record of innovation in public sector economic development initiatives leading to billions of dollars in private sector investment.
Ray Kirchner, Councilman At-Large, City of Mentor, Ohio, USA
Mentor Councilman Ray Kirchner is serving in his sixth term on Mentor City Council, having been elected in 2001. Councilman Kirchner has served as both Mayor and Council President of the City of Mentor, and was named Council’s International Trade Initiative Liaison in 2015. Councilman Kirchner attended Ohio State University and Cleveland State University. He worked for the Consolidated Rail Corporation as a conductor and various other responsibilities for 35 years.