Star Staff Reports
On Feb. 18 Chris Thomas was appointed the new Executive Director of the Millington Chamber of Commerce replacing the retired Terry Roland.
Thomas, described as a seasoned leader with extensive experience in both government and business sectors, began his tenure last Tuesday.
“I am excited to embark on this new journey and contribute to the growth of Millington’s business community,” Thomas said. “While the Chamber is not a government entity, I look forward to collaborating with the Millington Mayor’s Office to foster economic development and enhance opportunities for the city’s continued growth.”
Millington Mayor Larry Dagen expressed his support for the appointment, stating, “Thomas will be an asset for the chamber. Chris knows the innerworkings of government and the business community. I’m delighted he’s been chosen to lead the chamber.”
Houston Carson, Chairman of the Millington Chamber of Commerce Board, also praised Thomas’s appointment.
“Chris possesses the enthusiasm and business acumen needed to expand the Chamber’s membership and provide impactful support to local businesses,” Carson said. “His collaborative approach and diverse professional background will be instrumental in advancing the Chamber’s mission.”
Thomas’s career spans more than two decades of public service and business experience. He previously served as a Shelby County Commissioner and Probate Court Clerk, representing the Millington community for 20 years. He also held a position as a commissioner on the Memphis City School Board.
In addition, Thomas has a background in real estate and experience in the medical and funeral industries. He has been actively involved in coordinating significant community events, including the FedEx St. Jude Classic Golf Tournament.
Thomas holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Memphis and later earned certification as a Public Administrator from the University of Tennessee.
Founded in 1950, the Millington Chamber of Commerce has long served as a driving force for local economic development. The Chamber supports numerous key community events, including the Military Appreciation Breakfast, which honors the achievements of the Naval Support Activity, the Millington Schools Annual Golf Tournament, and others that benefit the city.
Prior to Thomas, the post was held by Roland for nearly a decade. Roland announced his retirement from the Chamber in late 2024 and stepped aside in December.
“Much of the Chamber’s membership consists of small businesses, and I am eager to engage with local owners and employees to understand their needs and how we can better support them,” Thomas said. “My focus will be on strengthening relationships within the business community, with an emphasis on fostering commercial growth.
“Millington’s strategic location, with access to major highways, railroads, and the newly upgraded Millington-Memphis Airport, positions us as an ideal hub for business and industry,” he concluded.
