Natalie Chmiko

MARQUETTE — A new top executive will soon take over the reins at the Lake Superior Community Partnership.

The partnership has announced the selection of Natalie Chmiko as its next chief executive officer. Chmiko, a Skandia resident and seasoned Michigan economic development professional, will begin a structured CEO-designate transition on April 20, working with outgoing CEO Christopher Germain before assuming full leadership responsibilities in May.

“My family and I have been drawn to this part of the Upper Peninsula for years. The people, the nature and the sense of community is hard to find anywhere else. I am eager to get to work alongside the talented LSCP team and our incredible network of partners and investors,” said Chmiko. “The organization is in a strong position and I look forward to building on that by deepening relationships, enhancing what’s already working and helping Marquette County continue to grow.”

Chmiko brings more than a dozen years of economic development experience to the role, most recently serving as senior vice president of culture and collaborative operations at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. In that role, she oversaw strategy, organizational development, human resources and other cross-functional operations.

During her time at MEDC, she advanced from an entry-level analyst to a senior executive position, leading strategic initiatives, securing significant state and federal investment and building collaborative teams that supported Michigan’s small business, manufacturing and community development efforts.

“I am so excited for Natalie to step in and continue the momentum we’ve built together at LSCP. The energy in this organization is real, and it isn’t going anywhere,” said Germain, who led LSCP since 2022. “Natalie’s depth of experience across Michigan’s economic development ecosystem and her genuine connection to this community, means we’re in great hands. She will keep this work moving forward and find new ways to build on what our team and partners have accomplished.”

The selection culminates a board-led search that drew interest from across the state and country. LSCP’s board of directors oversaw the search with input from staff and the broader membership.

“Natalie brings exceptional credentials and a deep commitment to this community and we are thrilled to welcome her as LSCP’s next CEO. We are also deeply grateful to Christopher for his leadership and dedication to Marquette County,” noted Scott Knaffla, partnership board chair. “Working alongside our staff, board, partners and investors, he has helped strengthen LSCP’s momentum and expand the organization’s impact across the county. Natalie is the right person to continue that progress and we couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.”