Outgoing Chairman, Larry Gellerstedt, Thursday told attendees of the Metro Atlanta Chamber's annual meeting that the business community wants to "build on what we did last year with transportation" by
Outgoing Chairman, Larry Gellerstedt, Thursday told attendees of the Metro Atlanta Chamber’s annual meeting that the business community wants to “build on what we did last year with transportation” by focusing on transit in 2016. At the luncheon, the Cousins Properties CEO officially turned over the reins to 2016 Chair, Jenner Woods. Woods is corporate executive vice president of SunTrust Bank. During Wood’s remarks he stressed the importance of a qualified workforce in attracting new business to the region. He also addressed the issue of inclusiveness in hiring practices saying, “to attract people to this city, we have to have a completely inclusive workplace…we won’t tolerate any discrimination.” His comments came as the General Assembly faces an anticipated debate on religious freedom legislation in January.
MAC President Hala Moddelmog spoke to the chamber’s ChooseATL brand campaign which she described as “a special brand of hustle and hospitality.” Several local entrepreneurs were recognized for their successes and were held up as examples of the city’s unbridled potential.
Mayor Kasim Reed closed out the event with a brief status report on the city’s financial standing, specifically mentioning pension reform and improved credit ratings.
Attendees also learned that Jeff Sprecher will serve as 2017 chairman. Sprecher is CEO of Intercontinental Exchange and CEO of the New York Stock Exchange. AT&T President & CEO Ralph De La Vega take over as chairman 2018.
For more detail on today’s meeting, reference the media coverage below.
