New ABI President Nicole Crain: Speaking up for business ‘ingrained in who I am’

Nicole Crain. CREDIT ABI
Nicole Crain. CREDIT ABI

Newly-minted ABI President Nicole Crain traces her passion for business advocacy to her teen years working at the family’s restaurant in her hometown of Blockton, Iowa.

“I drank the Kool-Aid early on. It’s ingrained in who I am,” says Ms. Crain, who moved into ABI’s top leadership role with Mike Ralston’s retirement in mid-December after nearly two decades at the organization’s helm.

“Working in the restaurant, supporting the town, serving people, doing dishes, counting back change” was a formative experience, says Ms. Crain. “I remember the regulations we had to comply with, wanted to comply with, Mom getting a call from a state agency in the middle of fried-chicken day.”

Her father played a supporting role in the restaurant, but it was her mom’s operation, another lesson that has served her well. “For me it’s kind of natural. I’m always glad for that female role model to look up to. In ABI, we have strong leaders that are men and women in all the industries we’re involved in,” Ms. Crain says.

The Simpson College magna cum laude graduate in political science and management is well-prepared as she adjusts to her new role. She worked a year as director of governmental affairs for Associated Building Contractors of Iowa, then nearly four years as director of government relations at ABI under Mr. Ralston’s mentorship. She left ABI for a short stint as president of the Iowa Taxpayers Association, returning in 2019 as senior vice president for public policy and vice president for government relations. She was promoted to executive vice president in 2019.

‘Natural fit for role of president’

In her more than 16 years at ABI, Ms. Crain worked closely with members and the board on varied initiatives involving organization finance and operations, membership, a partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation on childcare issues, and public policy advocacy.

“Nicole has been an exemplary steward of ABI’s mission to serve as the champion for Iowa businesses for more than a decade,” says Mr. Ralston. “Her work for ABI and our members has been pivotal in driving organizational growth and visibility. She is a natural fit for the role of president, and I have profound confidence in her leading ABI forward.”

“Nicole’s outstanding professionalism, track record for success and incredible work ethic rose to the top during our search,” says Chad Reece, ABI board of directors’ chair. “She has a strategic plan for the future of ABI that strongly aligns with the board’s vision for the organization. That combined with her unwavering commitment to and passion for the organization and its members, deep knowledge of our business, and understanding of our mission make her the right fit for the future.”

“It’s a huge responsibility,” says Ms. Crain of stepping into Mr. Ralston’s role. Has been a great mentor, a great boss. I started working here when I was in my mid-twenties. He helped empower me to grow. He will be missed in our organization. It was an honor to work for him.” His values were the values of ABI members: Your word and your integrity are all you have. Treat others as you would like to be treated.”

Ms. Crain’s strategic plan for ABI’s future includes building on the organization’s strengths. “I’ve been here awhile,” she says. “I have knowledge of what’s worked well. I want to ensure ABI’s continued record of legislative success. We’ve been instrumental in standing strong for employers, making sure businesses can stay in Iowa.”

Manufacturing, ABI Foundation top priorities

The organization, founded in 1903 as the Iowa Manufacturers Association, will continue support for the industry with a focus on expanding resources, says Ms. Crain. “We’re working on bringing more small manufacturers into ABI, making sure manufacturers are engaged. We’re involved in supporting Manufacturing 4.0, and we remain the go-to organization for manufacturers. We’re committed to that.”

ABI membership includes many private and family-held companies that are essential to the economic strength and quality of life of the state, she adds.  “There’s so much that the public doesn’t realize about business in general, just how businesses are important to the sustainability of the economy, how significant they are to the community. Things like sponsoring a little league team or donating a chipper after a disaster can make such a difference. We can help tell their stories. When someone needs help, we can connect them with people who have answers.”

Another focus will be the ABI Foundation, a 501(c)(3) entity supported by contributions from corporations, individuals and others with a mission of providing statewide education programs to develop community leaders and strengthen Iowa’s workforce. Programs and initiatives include Business Horizons, Leadership Iowa, Leadership Iowa University and Elevate.

“We have the opportunity to leverage and align the work of the foundation with the organization. We want to bring in new grant partners and be the go-to for reinforcing manufacturing careers and the talent pipeline,” says Ms. Crain.

Ms. Crain’s promotion is among several staff changes to prepare ABI for growth and higher visibility in coming years. Olivia Jones, a former intern and alumna of ABI Foundation programs, comes on board as marketing and communications assistant as Communications Director Kelsey O’Connor takes maternity leave. Member Services Coordinator Levi Lefebure has been promoted to membership development manager, taking on some of Ms. Crain’s former duties. Two other new hires will focus on member and business relations.

It is an honor to be trusted with such an important position,” says Ms. Crain. “I have a strong vision for the future of ABI — one that encourages more member and partner engagement, growth of our membership, and additional opportunities to educate all Iowans about the importance of business to the state’s success. I will continue to fulfill our mission to advocate, collaborate, educate and motivate to move Iowa forward. I’m excited to get started in 2025.”