LANSING, Mich., April 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Michigan Chamber of Commerce today announced the promotion of James R. Holcomb to General Counsel.

"Last year, under Jim Holcomb's leadership, the Michigan Chamber's outstanding business advocacy team led the fight to accomplish several longstanding legislative priorities, including repeal and replacement of Michigan's Business Tax; two rounds of unemployment insurance reform legislation; and a breakthrough on worker's compensation reform," said Michigan Chamber President & CEO Rich Studley.

"In addition to being a strong advocate for business in the legislative arena, Jim is also a very good attorney," added Studley. "So I am pleased to announce his promotion to General Counsel."

In his role as Senior Vice President for Business Advocacy and General Counsel for the Michigan Chamber, Holcomb will responsible for all the Chamber's efforts relating to legislative, legal and political action.

"I'm certain Jim has the background, experience and leadership skills to continue the Chamber's track record of success in business advocacy and meet new challenges as we work to move Michigan forward," Studley concluded.

Before joining the Michigan Chamber in 2007, Holcomb was a legislative staffer serving in senior policy and legal roles in both the State House and Michigan Senate, including Chief of Staff to Speaker Craig DeRoche. In addition to his public service, Holcomb practiced law with the firm Howard & Howard where he focused on regulatory compliance and civil litigation.

Holcomb holds an MBA degree from the University of Michigan, a bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University and a law degree from Thomas Cooley Law School. He is a member of the State Bar of Michigan and is admitted to practice before the Michigan Supreme Court and all lower-level state courts.

The Michigan Chamber of Commerce is a statewide business organization representing approximately 6,800 employers, trade associations and local chambers of commerce. The Michigan Chamber represents businesses of every size and type in all 83 counties of the state. Michigan Chamber member businesses provide jobs to 1.5 million residents. One of every 2.6 employees in Michigan works for a Chamber member firm. The Chamber was established in 1959 to be an advocate for Michigan's job providers in the legislative, political and legal process. It is one of only four state chambers of commerce in the nation accredited by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

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SOURCE Michigan Chamber of Commerce