Biz_YearInReview_1223 - FINAL_Layout 1 12 / 5 / 23 3 : 58 PM Page 1 Year in Review With 2023 winding down , we’re taking one last look at the topics we’ve covered , the experts we’ve heard from and the local leaders we’ve highlighted these past 12 months . This year certainly gave South Jersey’s business world plenty to ponder , with economic uncertainty and continually evolving expectations being just two drivers of change , whether it’s adapting to persistent pain points like high inflation rates driving up the cost of doing business or embracing the modern mindsets that nudge us closer to long - overdue reassessments of how business should be done — and making more room for the fresh , diverse voices bringing novel ideas to the table . As we look back on the stories that defined 2023 and the lessons it brought along for the ride , we’re also giving all the incredible professionals we’ve celebrated and whose generously supplied insights have graced our pages one final celebratory bow before looking ahead to see what’s in store for 2024 . January February e kicked off 2023 ome of South Jersey’s by highlighting 20 of most impressive female the region’s CEOs business leaders — 20 of and CFOs who are them , to be exact — shared Wleading their teams — Stheir insights and inspira - and the region’s business landscape — tions in this year’s Women to Watch . to success by learning from their expe - The section was filled with praise for riences and leading by example . These how far we’ve come but also sugges - decision - makers shared not only their tions for realizing a world of true equi - visions for the year to come but also ty , with many stressing the importance some of the most valuable insights of making room at the table for tomor - from their storied careers . Those row’s incredible leading ladies . We also leaders weren’t the only ones generously sharing their spoke to cannabiz insiders about what it’s been like as the wisdom : DEI experts illuminated the importance of em - budding industry closed in on its first year , found out what bracing systemic change through continually making the small - and medium - sized business are doing to leverage professional world accessible to everyone with the talent technology to remain competitive with their larger peers and potential for making an incredible impact ; we got and competitors , and explored COVID’s lingering impact on some expert tips for navigating tax season ; and economic the commercial real estate market . experts brought some clarity to how national financial trends were expected to play out locally . 10 | SOUTH JERSEY BIZ | VOLUME 13 ISSUE 12 | SouthJerseyBiz.net