Rachel Ivy
About
Rachel A. Ivy is a dynamic professional with over two decades of experience in accounting, human resources, marketing, and communications. Hailing from Chicago's west side, Rachel is deeply passionate about fostering economic development in underserved communities. Her dedication to community regeneration drives her innovative approach to business. As Owner and President of Communities Empowered Through Construction (CEC), B/ACE Magazine, Signature Affairs, Inc., and the host of the podcast "Da Bluprint," Rachel has built strong relationships with influential leaders in Chicago’s construction industry. Her unique ability to bring them together for the betterment of the community sets her apart.
Signature Affairs, Inc., Rachel's full-service management consulting firm, holds DBE/ACDBE/WBE/MBE certifications and specializes in concession management. As an ACDBE partner for O'Brien's at O'Hare International Airport and The Hudson Midway Joint Venture at Midway Airport, Rachel draws on her 20 years of event design and planning experience. Her client list includes esteemed figures and corporations such as Doc Severinsen, Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White, Miller Brewing Company, and Leopardo Construction Company. Rachel takes pride in crafting meticulously curated events that reflect her clients' unique identities, whether it's a large-scale career fair or an intimate fundraiser. CEC, a DBE/MBE/WBE-certified talent management firm for construction, is committed to creating opportunities for Chicago residents in development projects.
Through partnerships with local government, developers, construction companies, and community organizations, CEC offers sustainable employment opportunities in the trades for people of color. Rachel leverages her expertise in human resources, marketing, and communication to organize community hiring events, provide professional development, and facilitate job placement in the construction industry. Notable CEC projects include Lathrop Homes, O'Hare Cargo Facility Phase III, Taylor Street Library, and the renovation of the Old Cook County Hospital. Rachel has recently joined the development team for the City's Invest Southwest program.
B/ACE Magazine, a digital publication under CEC's umbrella, is led by Rachel as Editor-in-Chief. The magazine showcases the vibrancy of the construction industry with exclusive interviews, stunning project images, and updates on CEC's endeavors. B/ACE also covers the latest in fashion, food, and politics, providing readers with a well-rounded experience. "Da Bluprint," Rachel's podcast launched in 2021, engages in insightful conversations with construction professionals, city and state elected officials, and other key figures in the industry. Through engaging dialogue, the podcast delves into the intricacies of the construction industry and explores key issues facing communities.
Rachel Ivy earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and received a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Human Resources from DePaul University. She has worked as an auditor and accountant for both public and private accounting firms.
