Bradley Byrne, former U.S. Congressman for the First District and former chancellor of the Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education, has been chosen as president and CEO of the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce.
Bill Sisson, who led the chamber for many years, left last fall and a search has been underway since then.
“Today’s announcement is a slam dunk for the Chamber of Commerce and Mobile,” said Mobile Mayor Sandy 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.”
Jo Bonner, Byrne’s predecessor in the First District Congressional seat and now president of the University of South Alabama, said, “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. 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. My hat is off to the chamber for finding the best person to help position Mobile to continue to grow, prosper and lead.”
While working full-time for the chamber, Byrne will continue to serve as of counsel to Adams and Reese law firm in Mobile.
Byrne is a graduate of Duke University with a law degree from the University of Alabama.
In addition to representing business interests, the Mobile Area Chamber is the official economic development organization for the City of Mobile. Over the past 10 years, the chamber notes, the city has seen $5.4 billion in new investment, creating more than 7,600 new jobs.
