Meet the Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors - Jennifer Shoaf Richardson
Interview with Jennifer Shoaf Richardson, Shareholder at Emmanuel Sheppard and Condon and Board Member & Co-Chair of the Women Mean Business Committee at the Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce
1. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
Q: What is your business or profession, and how does it contribute to the Perdido Key community?A: ESC is a full-service law firm that has served this community since 1913. We provide legal services for employment law, real estate, construction, trusts, estates, personal injury, HOA/Condos, adoption, workers compensation, criminal, and family law. We represent many Perdido Key businesses and individuals.
Q: Can you briefly describe your role or job within your business?
A: I am a Shareholder and leader of the Employment Law Practice Group, serving the needs of employers throughout Florida.
Q: Can you please introduce yourself and briefly describe your current position within the Chamber's Board of Directors?
A: I have been serving on the Board for three years. I am co-chair of the Women Mean Business Committee.
Q: How long have you been a member of the Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce?
A: I have been a member of the Perdido Chamber since I moved home in 2021.
2. INVOLVEMENT WITH THE CHAMBER
Q: What motivated you to start getting involved with the Chamber, and how did you initially become a member?A: My partner, Sally Bussell Fox, knew I loved the Perdido Area and thought I would be a great fit for the board, which wanted to add someone with legal background.
Q: Could you share a memorable experience or achievement during your tenure with the Chamber?
A: I always love the Red, White and Birdies golf tournament, where I won the putting contest this year. I have also really enjoyed seeing the Women Mean Business Committee flourish. Our sail on Sail Wildhearts at sunset was a great way to spend time with each other and enjoy the incredible environment we have on the Key.
3. IMPACT OF SERVING ON THE BOARD
Q: In what ways has serving on the Chamber's Board of Directors positively impacted you personally and professionally?A: Since moving home after almost 20 years away, I have had a chance to reconnect with many childhood friends, from growing up who went to Holy Spirit and Helen Caro and did Girl Scouts with me. I have also had a chance to get to know my clients in a more personal way, which also elevates the level of representation I can provide for them.
4. ADVICE FOR CHAMBER MEMBERS
Q: Based on your experience, what advice would you offer to new or existing Chamber members looking to maximize their involvement and benefits?A: Choose the events you enjoy and make the most of them. We always need volunteers, so if you are a person who needs a role, we certainly have one for you.
5. PERSONAL INSIGHTS
Q: Beyond your professional endeavors, could you share a hobby or interest that you're passionate about?A: My main hobby and interest at this stage in life is spending time with my husband and my 4 year old whenever I am not working. We love to go to the beach and the pool and spend time at my mom’s house on Big Lagoon.
Q: What drives your commitment to community involvement, and are there any other organizations or causes you're passionate about supporting?
A: I strongly believe in community engagement and taking personal responsibility for improving our area and developing responsibly.
6. FUTURE OUTLOOK
Q: Looking ahead, what do you envision for the future of the Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce?A: I believe we will continue to grow and be a champion for Perdido in the County and State.
