The Mobile Chamber has selected longtime executive David Rodgers to succeed President and CEO Bradley Byrne, giving the two leaders nearly a year to work together before Byrne’s retirement.
Rodgers assumed the responsibilities of president and CEO designate Monday under a transition plan approved by the Chamber’s Board of Directors. He is expected to take over as president and CEO when Byrne retires July 1, 2027.
The extended transition will allow Byrne to continue leading the organization while Rodgers prepares to step into the top position.
Rodgers joined the Mobile Chamber in 2015 and advanced through several senior leadership roles before becoming executive vice president. During his time with the organization, he has helped lead economic development initiatives credited with billions of dollars in announced capital investment and thousands of announced jobs across the Mobile region.
A certified economic developer, Rodgers has worked closely with Byrne for years and has helped lead the Chamber’s efforts to strengthen Mobile’s economy and business community.
“I have had the privilege of working closely with David for many years and have seen the care, integrity and steady leadership he brings to this work,” Byrne said. “I have great confidence in him, both as a leader and as someone deeply committed to this community, and I look forward to working alongside him over the coming year to ensure a smooth transition.”
Rodgers thanked the board for its confidence and Byrne for his guidance.
“I am deeply grateful to the Board for its confidence and to Bradley for his leadership and mentorship,” Rodgers said. “It is an honor to lead this organization, and I look forward to serving alongside the talented Chamber team to work with our members, partners and investors to create even more opportunities for the Mobile region.”
The Chamber’s Board of Directors selected Rodgers following an executive leadership evaluation. Teresa Williamson, chairman of the board, said the decision was based on both his record and his vision for the organization.
“Selecting the Chamber’s next president and CEO is among the Board’s most important responsibilities,” Williamson said. “Throughout this process, we remained focused on identifying the leader best prepared to guide our organization into the future. David Rodgers distinguished himself through his leadership, integrity, strategic vision and unwavering commitment to the Mobile community.”
Williamson said her experience working with Rodgers also gave her confidence in his ability to lead the organization.
“I’ve watched David grow as a leader, and I’ve also watched him help others grow,” she said. “Those qualities cannot be captured on a résumé, but they are among the reasons I have complete confidence in his ability to lead this organization and inspire the people who make it successful.”
Mobile-area business leaders also expressed support for the selection.
Mike Jordan and Patrick Murphy of Alabama Power Company said Rodgers’ understanding of the region and collaborative leadership style will be important as Mobile continues to grow.
“David brings a proven commitment to economic development, business advocacy and community partnership,” they said in a joint statement. “His understanding of our region, collaborative leadership style and passion for creating opportunities will be tremendous assets to the Mobile Chamber and the businesses it serves.”
Burton Property Group President and CEO Phillip G. Burton called Rodgers a proven and respected leader whose roots and relationships give him an understanding of Mobile’s business community.
“His vision, credibility, collaborative approach and commitment to economic growth make him exceptionally well qualified to lead the Mobile Chamber,” Burton said.
The Chamber said the transition will position the organization to continue strengthening the regional economy, serving its members and investors, and building on the partnerships that have contributed to Mobile’s growth.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
