Leadership

Creating opportunities for success.

As Portland’s premier professional networking organization, the Oregon Executives Association is guided by dedicated leaders who help our community thrive. OEA is led by an elected Board of Directors and supported by our Executive Director, with all activities governed by the Association’s Bylaws.

Together, this leadership team works to ensure OEA runs smoothly, delivers meaningful value, and continues to create powerful opportunities for members to connect, collaborate, and support one another’s success.

Executive Committee

Jocelyn Jester

Jocelyn Jester

Executive Administrator

Oregon Executives Association

Beth Erlendson

Beth Erlendson

President

Fab Brands

Darrin Gross

Darrin Gross

Vice President

Leonard Adams Insurance

Kyle Bunch

Kyle Bunch

2nd Vice President

Summit Path Consulting

OEA has several standing committees dedicated to strengthening and growing our membership by enhancing benefits, increasing engagement, and creating meaningful opportunities for members to connect and succeed. 

Board Members

Gladys Boutwell

Gladys Boutwell

Business Reports & Attendance Chair

Insurance by Design

Jack Pischer

Jack Pischer

Programs Chair

Helpful Badger

Royle Johnson

Royle Johnson

Marketing Committee Chair

Royle Media

Ed Fredenburgh

Membership Committee Chair

Basis Point

Soug Xongmixay

Orientation Committee Chair

Bank of the Pacific

Suja Shyam

Second Thursday Chair

Luxe Capital

Jim Kitchin

Past President, Executive Development and Long-Range Planning Committee Chair

InterWorks, LLC

Jeff Huff

Special Events Chair

DocuMart

Roberta Nopson

Roberta Nopson

Past President, Member Relations Committee Chair

Nopson Real Estate

COMMITTEES

The work of the Oregon Executives Association is brought to life through our committees, which plan and support many of the programs, events, and initiatives our members enjoy. Members are encouraged to serve on one or more committees—it’s a fantastic way to build relationships, get involved, and have fun while contributing to the success of the organization. 

Special Events Committee

The Special Events Committee plans engaging social events and unique member experiences designed to build relationships, strengthen connections, and add extra value to OEA membership.

Member Relations

The Member Relations Committee supports positive, productive business relationships within OEA. If a member has a concern, dispute, or issue related to another member or their membership experience, this committee is available to help facilitate constructive conversation and work toward a fair, respectful resolution for everyone involved.

Long-Range Planning Committee

The Long-Range Planning Committee is dedicated to strengthening the future of OEA by exploring new opportunities to grow, innovate, and enhance the member experience beyond our current programming. The committee also identifies and invites expert speakers whose insights and expertise bring meaningful value to our members.

Programs Committee

This committee is responsible for coordinating and scheduling member presenters for our weekly meetings.

2nd Thursday Event Committee

This committee coordinates our popular “2nd Thursday” events, which are typically hosted at member businesses—sometimes in partnership with one or more fellow members. These gatherings offer a fun, relaxed way to connect, socialize, and get to know one another outside of our regular lunch meetings, while also giving hosts the chance to showcase their business and team.

Publicity/Marketing Committee

The Publicity & Marketing Committee is responsible for increasing awareness of OEA and highlighting the value our organization provides to its members. By strengthening our visibility in the business community, this committee supports overall membership growth and engagement. Their work includes developing marketing efforts, managing media relationships, and coordinating promotional opportunities through print and digital channels. 

Membership Committee

The Membership Committee drives the growth and strength of OEA by leading new member outreach, campaigns, and engagement efforts. They encourage members to invite qualified guests in open business categories and serve as a welcoming resource for prospective members—answering questions, guiding them through the application process, and helping them feel connected from the very beginning.

Orientation Committee

The Orientation Committee helps new members begin their OEA experience in the most meaningful and beneficial way possible. Each new member is paired with a mentor who ensures they feel welcomed, supported, and connected—encouraging introductions, fostering engagement, and guiding them through the many tools and resources available so they can quickly establish a strong foothold in the organization.

Attendance & Business Reports Committee

This committee tracks attendance to ensure members are meeting participation requirements, and also manages the Business Reports system, which records referrals, leads, and business activity shared among members. 

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee reviews the Association monthly financial statements, the quarterly financial reports, and prepares the budget with the Executive Director.

What they’re saying…

Ryan Graven, Matrix Networks

Matrix has been a member of the Oregon Executives Association since 2013. In that time, Matrix has onboarded several new clients that are current or former OEA members. More importantly, the group is a great resource to grow your professional network and learn from the experiences of business professionals in PDX. Thank you OEA!

JR Hinds, RHU REBC | Health Insurance Broker |  Hinds & Associates

What sets OEA apart is its commitment to fostering genuine relationships. The group provides a fertile ground for building long-lasting business relationships and friendships, as long as you’re willing to put in the effort. I highly recommend OEA to anyone who is serious about networking and wants to see tangible results. Joining this group has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my business.