Chad Odom, DFCP

Chad Odom, DFCP, has a strong background in economic development and business strategy. Chad started their career as a Manager at 1st Stop for International Business Services, where they led efforts to support the mission of the World Trade Center of New Orleans and developed a robust intern program. Chad then became the owner of Louisiana Thinks LLC, where they managed the 1st Stop for International Business Services while implementing a grant from Louisiana Economic Development. In this role, they focused on various consulting projects related to incentives and finance packages.

Chad later joined GE Capital as a Communications Coordinator, where they developed and launched a comprehensive voice protocol and a new voice development plan for call center success. Chad then became the owner of Ultimate Voice Solutions LLC, where they provided guidance and support for GE Capital's voice training program in India. Chad expanded their consultation services to include economic development, infrastructure planning, and fund procurement for various organizations.

Moving into the public sector, Chad worked as the Economic Development Director for the City of Port Lavaca, Texas. In this role, they collaborated with city managers and other stakeholders to energize economic development activities and attract new businesses. Chad also coordinated with regional and state-level stakeholders to institute strategies that supported local entrepreneurship.

Chad then served as the Executive Director of the Wharton Economic Development Corporation (WEDCo), where they managed a $1.5 million budget to revitalize economic corridors and attract new retail, real estate, and industrial operations. Chad also played a key role in launching economic recovery efforts following Hurricane Harvey and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prior to their current position, Chad was the Executive Director of the Lake Martin Area Economic Development Alliance. In this role, they led regional tactics driving economic development and worked with stakeholders to analyze opportunities for increasing the tax base and improving community well-being. Chad secured funding, negotiated contracts and partnerships, and executed critical infrastructure projects.

Currently, Chad is the Director of Business and Governmental Development at Rebirth Analytics.

Chad Odom, DFCP has a Bachelor of Science in Urban Studies and Planning, with a focus on International Economic Development from the University of New Orleans. Additionally, they obtained certifications such as the Development Finance Certified Professional- Graduate from the Council of Development Finance Agencies in October 2016, and the Economic Development Institute- Graduate from the University of Oklahoma Outreach in May 2016.

Chad is currently pursuing a Master of Real Estate Development at Auburn University, with a projected completion from 2023 to 2025. Chad also holds additional certifications in English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA), Getting Started in Importing and Exporting from the World Trade Center of New Orleans and US SBDC, and Principles of Project Management from Villanova University.