Gretchen Heal serves as the Vice President of Government Affairs. In this role, Gretchen advocates for policy and legislation that supports the business community in Hampton Roads. Her position allows her to connect with business leaders, organizations, and elected leaders to improve regional collaboration in Hampton Roads. She also provides support to members at all levels of government while her goal is to be honest and professional in her day-to-day interactions with people.
Most recently Gretchen served as the Government Affairs Director for the Hampton Roads REALTORS® Association (HRRA). Gretchen led association members in proactive, successful advocacy before the Virginia General Assembly and Hampton Roads local governments. Before joining HRRA, Gretchen worked in the Virginia General Assembly as the Chief of Staff to a Member of the House of Delegates from Hampton Roads, who served on Commerce and Labor, Education, and Transportation committees. She managed and directed his legislative and political operations and engaged with many advocates, administration officials, legislators, and staff. The experience and relationships she brings to the Hampton Roads Chamber are invaluable.
Gretchen holds a Masters of Business in International Business and a Masters of Communication in Political Speech from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. She studied in India, Ireland, England, and China while earning these degrees.
Gretchen was born in Norfolk and has lived in Suffolk most of her life, making her a life-long resident of Hampton Roads. In her opinion, one of the best parts of living in Hampton Roads is all of the history that can be experienced within the region.