Chris Holman welcomes back Payton Heins, President and CEO, Northern Lakes Economic Alliance, Boyne City, MI.Watch Payton and Chris discuss NLEA insights, key business trends, and what to expect from the upcoming Economic Symposium in the YouTube video shared below:
Chris had several questions for Payton in this conversation:
Welcome back, Payton. Share who the NLEA is/what you do?
The NLEA produces bi-annual snapshots [Economic Pulse Reports] of the top issues you’re hearing from business leaders across your region. Could you share key takeaways from the most recent report?
And, how are you preparing for the next Spring release?
Tell us about the upcoming Economic Symposium at Boyne Mountain on May 15?
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Northern Michigan — The Northern Lakes Economic Alliance (NLEA) is proud to announce that David Malpass, former President of the World Bank, will serve as the keynote speaker for the 2026 Economic Symposium, taking place May 15 from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Boyne Mountain Resort.
Tickets are now on sale for both individual attendees and full table reservations, offering businesses, organizations, and community leaders an opportunity to engage in one of Northern Michigan’s premier economic events. Attendees will have an opportunity to discuss and influence economic growth, while networking with fellow private and public sector leaders from around the region.
Born and raised in Northern Michigan, Malpass is excited to bring his global expertise home to support the region’s continued economic growth and resilience.
A globally recognized leader in international finance and economic policy, Malpass brings decades of experience across government, global institutions, and the private sector. He currently serves as Distinguished Fellow in International Finance with Purdue University, based in Indiana and Washington, D.C.
Malpass led the World Bank from 2019 to 2023, guiding the institution through unprecedented global challenges, including pandemic response and economic recovery efforts worldwide. Prior to that role, he served as U.S. Treasury Undersecretary for International Affairs from 2017 to 2019. His career also includes 24 years as a leading Wall Street economist and columnist with Forbes and The Wall Street Journal.
“Having a leader of David’s caliber join us underscores the significance of this year’s Symposium,” said Sam Bailey, Strategic Initiatives Manager. “His perspective on global markets, economic development, and long-term growth will provide valuable insight for businesses, policymakers, and community leaders across our region.”
This year’s theme of the Economic Symposium is “Made, Grown, and Built in Northern Michigan,” highlighting the foundational industries that power the region’s prosperity while exploring strategies for sustainable growth in a changing global economy.
To purchase tickets or reserve a full table, visit https://thenlea.com/calendar/2026-economic-symposium/
