Mike Odom

What is the biggest challenge facing the chamber in the long term?

The biggest challenge for the community is managing growth; I have heard that repeatedly from leadership in this area. We have had unbelievable growth with no indication that it will stop anytime soon. We understand as a business community that we have to manage that growth to ensure that it is done in the right way so that we can continue to be successful into the future.

What do you see as a major misconception people have about the chamber?

I believe that many times people may not see the opportunities that the chamber actually can and should be involved in. There are many areas that affect the business community that the chamber can help address and lead on.

What about Round Rock and the new job has surprised you?

The willingness of the business community to do what it takes to be successful in the long term. It is unusual to find a community that is this willing to get involved and to ensure that the community is set up for economic success long into the future.

In what areas can the chamber/EDP use improvement?

We need to ensure that we are providing value to our investors every day in everything that we do.

How can Round Rock's citizens get more involved in the chamber?

The chamber has an unbelievable amount of opportunities for engagement. No matter what your perspective or your time requirements, we have a number of ways to be a part of the organization. It is important that you as a businessperson find what is most interesting or most effective for your time and engage at that level.

Personnel file

• Former vice president of marketing at the Louisiana Association of Business & Industry
• Vice president of marketing at the Baton Rouge Area Chamber of Commerce 2006-12
• Held multiple senior marketing positions at casinos in Louisiana and Mississippi