Lakeshore Advantage adds fresh expertise to drive regional growth

As West Michigan’s economy continues to evolve, the addition of three industry leaders to the Lakeshore Advantage board of directors is intended to bring fresh insights and specialized knowledge to fuel the region’s future. 

Representing key sectors in energy, retail, and food processing, the newly appointed members will play a critical role in shaping the economic development organization’s strategic direction.

“We are thrilled to welcome these new members to the Lakeshore Advantage board,” says Jeff Stutz, board chair and chief financial officer at MillerKnoll. “Their extensive expertise in critical industries will play a pivotal role in steering the organization and fostering the ongoing economic prosperity of our region.”

The new appointees are Menaka Abel, chief financial officer at Request Foods; Wooyoung Jung, senior manager of business analytics & strategy at LG Energy Solution Michigan; and Keith Rothstein, group vice president of strategy and analytics at Meijer.

They bring diverse professional backgrounds and leadership experience to the 19-member board. Each will serve a three-year term.

“These exceptional industry leaders will bring tremendous value to our board and our region,” says Lakeshore Advantage President Jennifer Owens. “Their perspectives will help us address challenges and uncover opportunities in innovative ways.”
Courtesy Lakeshore AdvantageMenaka Abel

• Menaka Abel oversees finance and digital transformation for Request Foods, one of the nation’s leading co-manufacturers of frozen foods. Her career includes roles in international finance, sales, and strategy at Price Waterhouse, Steelcase, and Amway. Abel holds a CPA license and earned her degree in accounting from Hillsdale College.

• Wooyoung Jung has extensive finance experience in industrial sectors, having previously held various roles in Ohio before joining LG in Holland. He is a licensed CPA and a graduate of Franklin University in Columbus, Ohio.

• Keith Rothstein has built a career spanning leadership roles in buying, planning, pricing, finance, marketing, and e-commerce. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and an MBA from Wayne State University.

The new board members will be introduced at Lakeshore Advantage’s annual meeting, scheduled for Feb. 20 at 3 p.m. at the Pinnacle Center in Hudsonville. Event details are available at lakeshoreadvantage.com/events.

A full list of board members can be found at lakeshoreadvantage.com/about-us/our-team-board.