Roanoke Native Michelle Williams Takes on Key Talent Role at Roanoke Regional Partnership

The Roanoke Regional Partnership is excited to welcome Michelle Williams as its new talent strategies manager for Get2KnowNoke. A Roanoke native and Radford University graduate, Williams brings eight years of marketing experience and a passion for storytelling, strategic outreach, and community engagement to the role.

Headshot of Michelle Williams
Michelle Williams, new Talent Strategies Manager with the Roanoke Regional Partnership

In her new position, Williams will lead initiatives that support the Partnership’s efforts to attract and retain top talent in the Roanoke Region. Her background in developing strategic marketing initiatives, producing engaging multimedia content, and amplifying the voices of local businesses and professionals aligns seamlessly with Get2KnowNoke’s mission. Through targeted outreach and innovative storytelling, she will help connect businesses with the skilled workforce they need to thrive.

An African-American woman at a job fair explains employment opportunities to a young white woman.
The Fall Intern and Career Expo organized by Get2KnowNoke

“The success of the Roanoke Region’s talent attraction and population growth hinges on how effectively we communicate what makes our market unique,” shared Julia Boas, director of business investment (and previous director of talent strategies). “Michelle’s expertise in marketing, creativity, and her ability to connect with Gen Z and younger audiences make her the ideal person to build on our successes and further expand our impact in attracting and engaging working-age talent.”

As the talent strategies manager, Williams will play a critical role in supporting employer growth by showcasing the Roanoke Region’s advantages to targeted audiences. She will lead content strategies, engage with professionals and community leaders, and craft compelling narratives that highlight career and lifestyle opportunities in the area. She will also spearhead popular internal initiatives like the Talent Ambassador and Onboard ROA programs.

A group of over 50 young professionals are gathered in a brewery to celebrate the completion of the Onboard ROA program put on by Get2KnowNoke.
Graduates of the 2024 Onboard ROA program facilitated by Get2KnowNoke

“Michelle’s marketing experience will benefit the continued growth of the talent program,” said John Hull, executive director of the Roanoke Regional Partnership. “Her work will be instrumental as the Partnership continues to assist in business growth with marketing services and to communicate regional advantages to key talent markets.”

With a proven track record of tackling challenges head-on and driving engagement across digital platforms, Michelle is well-equipped to take the Partnership’s talent initiatives to the next level. Her dedication to community engagement and strategic marketing will play a pivotal role in positioning the Roanoke Region as a premier destination for professionals and businesses.

Sunset shot of Downtown Roanoke
The City of Roanoke skyline at sunset

“Roanoke is more than my hometown—it’s a community I believe in,” said Michelle. “Through storytelling and strategic outreach, we can amplify talent, businesses, and ideas to foster an even more vibrant and thriving Roanoke.”

Partnership staff are thrilled to have her on board and look forward to the impact she will have on the team and in the Roanoke Region.