The Mobile Chamber on Thursday announced that former U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne (R-Mobile) will become the organization’s next president and CEO, effective June 1, 2022.
Terry Harbin of Affordable Homes Gulf Coast LLC, who led the chamber’s 10-member search committee, spoke to the organization’s diligence in its selection of Byrne as its next CEO.
“After an extensive, nationwide search, we are excited to share that native Mobilian, former state Senator, former Chancellor of Alabama’s Community College System and former Congressman Bradley Byrne will become the next president and CEO of the Mobile Chamber,” said Harbin. “We had many outstanding applicants for this top-level leadership position, and the committee invested much time and due diligence in finding the next leader of the Mobile Chamber.”
Byrne will maintain his role as counsel for Adams and Reese, LLP.
In a statement, the former South Alabama congressman touched on his plans as leader of the Mobile Chamber.
“I am excited to be selected as president and CEO of the Mobile Chamber and to have the opportunity to lead this organization into the future,” stated Byrne. “I am eager to get started and am grateful to be surrounded by a supportive board and community partners with a vision for creating, growing and attracting businesses and quality jobs. The Mobile Chamber’s reputation is second to none, and we will continue to build on this foundation of excellence and be a champion for business growth and economic development.”
In the U.S. House of Representatives, Byrne was a member of the House Rules, Education and Labor, and Armed Services Committees. In 2007, he was named chancellor of the Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education. Prior to serving in the Alabama Senate, Byrne was a member of the Alabama State Board of Education for two terms.
Mobile Chamber chairman Matt White hailed Byrne for his ability to “get things done.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Bradley as the Chamber’s new president and CEO,” stated White. “Throughout the state and in Washington, Bradley is recognized as a leader who knows how to get things done. He has all the tools we were looking for to support the business growth that will drive our economy in the years ahead.”
He continued, “On behalf of the board of directors, I extend our sincere appreciation to Bob for his efforts over the last seven months. Bob helped ensure a smooth transition. The Chamber continued its program of work and never missed a beat.”
Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson heaped praise upon Byrne for his extensive service in leadership positions.
“Today’s announcement is a slam dunk for the Chamber of Commerce and Mobile,” declared Stimpson. “Bradley has a proven track record in the areas of education, government, politics, and law. He brings a wealth of knowledge and relationships to the table, and I can’t think of a more distinguished leader to take on this critical role and help continue moving Mobile forward.”
University of South Alabama president Jo Bonner said that Byrne would be a “tremendous asset” to the organization.
“Having someone with Congressman Byrne’s experience, relationships and reputation along with his passion and lifelong commitment to helping grow Mobile and south Alabama – is a grand slam, not only for our Chamber, but for Mobile’s place as a leader throughout the Gulf Coast and the Southeastern United States,” advised Bonner.
“Bradley knows Montgomery, he knows Washington and perhaps more importantly, people who know him and have worked with him throughout the years and understand he is a consummate professional and will be a tremendous asset in this new role,” he added. “My hat is off to the Chamber for finding the best person to help position Mobile to continue to grow, prosper and lead.”
Interim president and CEO Bob Chappelle will resume his role as chief operating officer once Byrne assumes the position.
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
