The appointment of Francesca Rainieri has been received with enthusiasm in various sectors. The Minister of Industry, Commerce and Mipymes, Víctor ‘Ito’ Bisonó, expressed on his X account (formerly Twitter): ‘Congratulations, Francesca Rainieri! Your election as the first woman president of the @AMCHAMDR in 101 years is a historic achievement and a testament to your dedication and leadership’.
EDUCA, an organisation dedicated to improving education in the country, also congratulated Rainieri via Instagram, highlighting his historic election and his role as a member of its board of directors.
Rainieri herself has shared reflections on her new role, highlighting the evolution of the Dominican business environment towards greater openness and inclusion. In statements reported by local media, she said, ‘For me, it's an honour to be the first president of AMCHAMDR, but I know I won't be the only one, nor the last. That is what is really important.
She also stressed that her election should not focus solely on gender, but on the skills and abilities she brings to the position: ‘Now I have a greater responsibility because, being a woman, many people indirectly expect me to have to prove what I know should not be proven and is not necessary, because it has nothing to do with gender, but with the capacity, ability, skills and development that each person wants to achieve’.
AMCHAMDR, founded in 1923, has been a key platform for fostering trade relations between the Dominican Republic and the United States. Rainieri's election reflects a renewed commitment to diversity and inclusion in business leadership, which are critical to meeting the challenges of global trade in the 21st century.
Rainieri's track record at AMCHAMDR has been progressive and meritocratic. Her active involvement in the Chamber led her to serve on the Board of Directors for several years, followed by her participation in the Executive Committee, where she held roles as treasurer and vice-president. This path now culminates with her election as president, evidencing a structured and transparent process within the organisation.
The impact of this nomination transcends the borders of AMCHAMDR, serving as an inspiration for women in business and promoting a culture of equal opportunities. The presence of women in leadership positions is essential to reflect the diversity and richness of perspectives needed in the contemporary business world.
The election of Francesca Rainieri as president of AMCHAMDR is not only a recognition of her outstanding career and contributions to the tourism and business sector, but also a significant step towards gender equity in leadership positions in the Dominican Republic. Her vision and experience will be instrumental in strengthening business ties between the Dominican Republic and the United States, and in advancing initiatives that promote economic growth and inclusion in the country.
