Kem Mullins, Saint Francis Hospital-Bartlett CEO, has been named chairman of the Bartlett Area Chamber of Commerce’s 10-Year Economic Development Strategic Plan. He currently serves on the Bartlett Area Chamber’s Board of Directors and is its Vice Chair for Economic Development.
Ken Newberry, chairman of the Bartlett Area Chamber of Commerce, said his selection of Mullins was based on experience and vision.
“Kem is very astute when it comes to economic development,” Newberry said. “He understands the importance of growing the economy and creating jobs. Kem is a thinker and a doer and someone who knows how to get the job done. We are very fortunate to have him at the helm for this important long range strategy we plan to kick off in 2010.”
In response to his selection, Mullins said he believes Bartlett’s vibrant market is a major source for economic growth in Shelby County with unlimited potential.
“With a focused plan and adequate resources,” he said, “we can make northeast Shelby County one of the most dynamic economic engines in the tri-states. I’m looking forward to being a part of this long range economic development strategy.”
In his role as chairman, Mullins will work with the Bartlett Chamber’s Strategic Partners and Economic Investors (a public/private partnership) to establish a strategy and set a course of action for the next 10 years.
The Bartlett area has a diverse economy with a healthy mix of primary industry, office, professional and retail businesses. In recent years, the area has been attracting life science companies, which now total 25 businesses employing over 5000 people. In addition to life science, the area is strong in the agribusiness, healthcare, distribution and retail industries.
Bartlett mayor Keith McDonald said the plan will help the city build on these successes.
“I am pleased that Kem Mullins has agreed to chair this major economic development initiative for the Bartlett area,” he stated. “It will help us refocus on where we desire to be as a community in 2020 in terms of jobs and our economic base.”
BACC President John Threadgill was also happy with the selection. “The Chamber Board could not have chosen a more capable leader for our long term economic development initiative,” Threadgill said. “Kem has been involved in economic development for most of his career. He has played a key role in major projects prior to coming to the Bartlett area, including attracting Dell Computers to Wilson County, TN. I’m very excited to having Kem lead this bold initiative.”