Chamber-versary Spotlight: Jeff Schaaf, Vice President, Talent Strategy & Signature Events

From EPIC Toledo to Regional Impact

Jeff Schaaf’s Chamber journey began as a highly engaged participant in EPIC Toledo, where he saw firsthand how the Chamber brings people together to make a difference. Drawn by the opportunity to work for an organization deeply invested in community impact, Jeff joined the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce in 2013 with a shared belief that Toledo’s potential was just waiting to be unlocked.

​“Toledo has always felt like a place with untapped potential. The chance to help shape the region’s talent story—alongside leaders who genuinely care about its future—was something I couldn’t pass up.”

Growing with the Chamber

Over the past 13 years, Jeff’s role has evolved alongside the Chamber’s expanding priorities. What started as a focus on community branding has grown into a comprehensive talent attraction and engagement strategy—one that elevates Toledo’s story on a regional and national stage. Today, Jeff also leads the creation of the Chamber’s signature events, designing experiences that bring people together and deliver real value to members.

Supporting Talent, Supporting Business

Jeff’s work helps Chamber members focus on what they do best—running their businesses—while the Chamber helps tell Toledo’s story.

Through initiatives like Summer in the City, employer connections, and the Toledo Region marketing toolkit, Jeff and his team help businesses:

• Attract emerging and experienced talent
• Showcase career and lifestyle opportunities
• Build a sense of belonging that keeps people in the region long term

“This is a great place to build a career and a life—and we help businesses show that.”

Convening the Region

While every Chamber event serves as a connector, Jeff points to the Annual Meeting and Clambake as standout examples of the Chamber’s convening power. Each event brings together nearly 500 employers, educators, civic champions, and business leaders—creating space for collaboration, conversation, and community.

What Makes the Chamber Unique

For Jeff, the best part of working at the Chamber is the variety—and the impact.

“No two days are the same. You get a front-row seat to the region’s challenges and opportunities, and the chance to work across industries and sectors to help move Toledo forward.”

​One lesson that has stayed with him? Toledo’s connectivity.

​“We joke that this is a two-degrees-of-separation region. If you don’t know someone, a Chamber teammate or board member probably does. That’s a true differentiator for Toledo.”

Looking Ahead

Jeff is energized by the growing alignment around talent, placemaking, and quality of life across the region—and by Toledo’s growing confidence in itself.

​“We are a much different place than we were 13 years ago. I can’t wait to see where we are in another 13.”

Lightning Round ⚡

• Favorite Toledo spot: University of Toledo
• Favorite local eats: Kengo, Souk, Hannon’s Block, Stubborn Brother, J&G’s Pizza (Jeff is a "foodie". Want a great restaurant or meal recommendation...he's your guy!)
• Coffee go-to: The Flying Joe
• One word to describe the Chamber: Experts
• Weekends usually include: Catching up with friends and family at great local restaurants
• Cheering for: Knights of St. Francis de Sales School, Toledo Mud Hens, and the University of Toledo Rockets

Final Reflection

For Jeff, serving the Toledo region through the Chamber is deeply personal.

“The Toledo Region has given me a career, a community, and a sense of belonging. Helping people see opportunity here is both a responsibility and a privilege. I love this city. I’m invested in this city—and I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.”

👏 Thank you, Jeff, for 13 years of leadership, connection, and commitment to Toledo’s future.