News from Retail Council of New York State

For more information contact: Rebecca Marion, Director of Public Affairs, 518-465-3586

Growing Retail Association Hires Two

ALBANY, NY (10/16/2007; 1323)(readMedia)-- The Retail Council of New York State -- driven by the needs of its growing membership base -- today announced that it has hired two new employees. The Retail Council offers money-saving group benefits programs, including credit card processing and a variety of insurance products, in addition to government relations expertise, to its 5,000 member stores.

Nicholl Bautochka has been hired as a member services coordinator. She will support the Council’s Insurance Services and Merchant Services Departments' sales and member service functions.

Prior to joining the Retail Council, Ms. Bautochka worked as an insurance agent/field underwriter for National Income Life Insurance Company. Ms. Bautochka holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology and criminal justice from the University at Albany. She resides in Guilderland.

Michelle Bruck has joined the Retail Council as marketing and communication coordinator. Her responsibilities include assisting with the Council’s newsletter, Web site and marketing activities to members and potential members.

Ms. Bruck previously held the position of writer/editor for the Research Foundation of State University of New York before joining the Retail Council. Ms. Bruck holds a bachelor’s degree in English from the State University of New York College at Oneonta. She resides in Albany.

“As more retailers and other businesses take advantage of our wide range of merchant services such as credit card processing and insurance programs, we need the additional staff support to make sure our members continue to receive the quality service they have come to depend upon,” said Retail Council President and Chief Executive Officer James R. Sherin. “Nicholl and Michelle are energetic, capable additions to our team and we look forward to their contributions.”

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