Kim Slaton, Renee Sandler and Les Sandler
Submitted by JVS Careers
The energy in the room was buzzing. Over 125 Jewish professionals gathered at MadTree Brewing in Blue Ash for the JVS Careers Annual Meeting and Jewish Business Network (JBN) Cincinnati event, an evening that celebrated community, career impact, and the growing strength of professional connection within the Jewish business community.
This year’s meeting was particularly meaningful, as JVS Careers marked an incredible milestone of 85 years of helping individuals find purpose, employment, and professional direction. From job seekers to entrepreneurs, from students to CEOs, JVS Careers has played a critical role in the career journeys of thousands in our region. The event underscored not only this rich legacy, but the exciting momentum that lies ahead.
The highlight of the evening was a lively and inspiring keynote conversation with Dick Williams, President and CEO of Skyline Chili. Williams, a respected business leader and community builder, shared stories of leadership, resilience and corporate culture that deeply resonated with attendees. “Dick’s insights were both practical and personal,” said one guest. “He reminded us that values matter in business and that authenticity can fuel real growth.”
The networking before and following the program was electric. Conversations turned into connections, and for many, into actual business and job leads. Attendees are still talking about the new partnerships and clients that emerged. One business owner shared, “I walked away with three promising leads and even more meaningful conversations. This wasn’t just networking, it was community building.”
Since the event, JVS Careers has received numerous inquiries about how to join or sponsor future JBN Cincinnati gatherings. The buzz hasn’t faded, in fact, it’s growing.
“People want to belong to something that’s both professionally valuable and deeply rooted in shared values,” said Kim Slaton, Executive Director of JVS Careers. “JBN Cincinnati is becoming that space. It’s more than just business cards. Andy Cohen and Max Fisher, JVS Careers Board members and JBN Cincinnati Core Committee Co-Chairs, are making this group about a thriving, interconnected Jewish business community.”
As JVS Careers enters its 86th year, it continues to innovate, offering business services like outplacement, executive coaching, career programs, and now a powerful business network that’s already proving its worth. The organization remains deeply committed to helping individuals and companies grow, while strengthening the social and economic fabric of our community.
