Meet The Team
Chairperson
William Francis
Edward Jones Investments
William Francis has been a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones Investments since July 2018 and serves as the board chairman for the East Providence Area Chamber of Commerce. He is an active member and past president of both the East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club and East Bay Home Advisors, and volunteers as a team leader for the annual Alzheimer's Walk in Providence.
Executive Director
Anthony DeCrescenzo Jr.
East Providence Area Chamber
Anthony DeCrescenzo Jr. is the Executive Director of the East Providence Area Chamber, where he leverages his extensive experience in community leadership and business development to drive local economic growth and strengthen partnerships. With a deep commitment to enhancing the business environment in East Providence, Barrington, Seekonk and Rehoboth Anthony focuses on fostering a vibrant community and providing valuable resources and support to Chamber members.
Vice-Chairperson
Brendalee O'Hara
O'Hara Senior Care Services
Brendalee is the President and Owner of O’Hara Senior Care Services, Inc., where she has been providing home care services to the elderly and veterans across Rhode Island and Southern Massachusetts since 2004. A proud East Providence native, Brendalee is deeply involved with the RI Alzheimer’s Association and currently serves as Vice-Chairperson of the Chamber, having contributed many years of service on the Board of Directors.
Vice-Chair, Events
Erin Mallo
Bank Newport
Erin started at BankNewport in March 2018 as a Branch Manager and was recently appointed Vice President, Retail Sales Support Manager. Founded in 1819 and headquartered in Newport, BankNewport is one of the longest-standing community banks in the United States, offering comprehensive financial services throughout Rhode Island. Erin has been with the chamber for two years.
Vice-Chair, PR/ Chamber Coalition Representative
Joe Lembo
WPRI 12
Joe Lembo serves as Vice-Chair and PR/Chamber Coalition Representative on the board of the Chamber of Commerce, where he plays a key role in shaping public relations strategies and fostering collaborative relationships. In addition to his board responsibilities, Joe is an Account Executive and Marketing Consultant for WPRI 12, bringing a wealth of expertise in media and marketing to both his professional and community roles. His dual focus on media and Chamber initiatives underscores his commitment to enhancing local business visibility and engagement.
Young Professionals Network
Joshua Luis Pereira
OptiTech, OptiPay, & OptiVoice
Joshua is the founder and owner of OptiTech, OptiPay, and OptiVoice, bringing over fifteen years of entrepreneurial experience and a diverse service background. Since launching his first business in 2009, Joshua has prioritized treating every client like family, guided by the golden rule—"do to others as you would have them do to you"—which has strengthened client relationships and driven business growth. He is also the newest addition to our team, leading the formation of our new Young Professionals Group.
Treasurer
Linda Rodriguez
BayCoast Bank
Linda is a Vice President at BayCoast Bank’s Solutions Center. BayCoast Bank is a local community bank serving the Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island communities since 1851. Linda has been affiliated with the chamber since 2013 when she became the manager at the Seekonk location and has served on the board for six years.
Secretary
Pamela Gaglia
HILB Group
With over 25 years of experience in insurance across Rhode Island and Massachusetts, Pamela is dedicated to offering exceptional service and personalized solutions for both personal and business needs. At OceanPoint Insurance Agency, she utilizes a broad range of carriers and an in-house underwriting team to provide accurate, tailored coverage. As a Chamber Board Member, Pamela is committed to supporting our community and handling all inquiries with the same expertise and care.