April 2007 Business Tennessee 2007 Power 100 By Drew Ruble BTN’s fourth annual list of the 100 most powerful people in Tennessee testifies to these truths: power is the ability to move people to action, to effect change. But it must be exercised for it to count. As such, the BTN Power 100 is no place for standing still. And in fact, nearly a quarter of the names on this year’s list are new. (Barely 50% are left from the inaugural 2004 list.)
Other factors contribute to such churn. Certainly, current events shape who holds power and therefore who is in a position to wield it. The greatest changes on this year’s list, for instance, stem from the sweeping Democratic takeover
of political control in the nation’s Capitol in the recent November elections. Tennessee’s net loss of federal pull as a result of that election is similarly reflected here. No congressional delegate appears in the top 10, a rarified air occupied by two delegates last year. Overall, though, more congressional delegates than ever appear on the list, a testament to the crucial value of each elected voice in Washington on current national policy decisions like Iraq war strategy.
Some of the change is self-inflicted, due to retirement (First Horizon’s Ken Glass), relocation (former Tennessean editor E.J. Mitchell), or simply the decision not to pursue another term (former Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist). But dropping off the list does not necessarily mean a permanent departure (and in fact six individuals return to this year’s list). Certainly, we expect to see Frist back on the list one day given he’s already been linked to a 2010 gubernatorial run.
Change also derives from the fact that BTN’s editorial team, which considered hundreds of names from all spheres of life in Tennessee in selecting the list, did so with an emphasis on providing a snapshot in time of the power structure in Tennessee—not on crafting a list more appropriate for a lifetime achievement award.
Who was #101? Tune in next year as that person might just take the aggressive steps needed to crack the list.
For now, though, these are the 100 Tennesseans currently doing the best job of influencing important legislation,
running Tennessee’s important institutions or just generally getting things done. It is an elite group making free
enterprise tick in Tennessee.
100 | Steve Cohen
9th District Congressman
Former state Senator, father of the Tennessee lottery, recently elected as one of two white congressmen nationally to represent a majority black district. First Jewish congressman from Tennessee. Member, House judiciary committee. Recently crossed local officials silent for Chattanooga’s sake in push for a Toyota plant and its ripple effects in nearby Arkansas. What remains to be seen is can he hold his seat in 2008 against a consensus black candidate.
99 | Jack Fishman
President, CEO & Publisher • Lakeway Publishers
Flat out the most influential businessman in Morristown but who also has considerable statewide and national reach. Publisher of more than a dozen community papers, magazines and Web sites across East and Middle Tennessee (and Missouri) including The Citizen Tribune in Morristown, The Tullahoma News, The Grundy County Herald of Tracy City, The Herald Chronicle of Winchester, The Manchester Times, and Elk Valley Times of Fayetteville. Member, State Board of Regents (over six universities and 13 community colleges). Director, SunTrust Bank, Morristown, Knoxville. Former Morristown Chamber head who has led local economic development for decades. One of just 22 board members of the Associated Press, the largest and oldest news organization in the world with 243 bureaus in 97 countries. Past president, National Newspaper Association. Director, Newspaper Association of America.
98 | Gary Wade
Tennessee Supreme Court Justice
Former two-time Sevierville mayor. Wealthy businessman and highly regarded judge. High-profile cases included Byron de la Beckwith (Mississippi Burning) extradition. At press time, the state’s newest “Supreme.” Prolific opinion writer. Founder, longtime chairman, Friends of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, whose volunteerism has restored trails, preserved historic structures, built a new science center and led to the identification of hundreds of new species.
97 | Anthony “Tony” Spezia
President & CEO • Covenant Health
Leads East Tennessee’s largest health care provider, a not-for-profit, community-owned organization with over 8,000 employees and annual revenue of $1.05 billion (Knoxville metro area’s third largest employer). Has overseen recent expansions at several Covenant hospitals (and one planned at Fort Sanders Sevier Medical Center where Dolly Parton is a major contributor). Incoming chair, Hospital Alliance of Tennessee.
96 | Phil Valentine
Radio talk show host • WWTN-FM
Recently launched Nashville-based show nationally on Westwood One, joining Bill O’Reilly, Jay Severin and Jim Cramer. Afternoon radio voice is the most-listened-to issue-oriented talk show in Nashville, beating Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, G. Gordon Liddy and Dave Ramsey (#25), among others. Long a powerful conservative voice in Middle Tennessee, Valentine is credited in part with public agitation that led to the Capitol Hill horn-honking protests surrounding 2002 income tax debate.
95 | Mike Ross
Real Estate tycoon
The brains and capital behind the five massive Rarity Communities residential developments dotting East Tennessee and driving up its value as a retirement haven. Recently teamed with fellow developer John “Thunder” Thornton (#39) on 578-acre, $750 million lakeshore project in Marion County (essentially a Chattanooga suburb). The first developer ever to do a land swap with TVA, Ross has built over 7,000 homes on over 8,000 acres throughout East Tennessee.
94 | Phil Fulmer
Head football coach • University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Recovered from first losing season in 13 years to capture nine victories and a New Year’s Day bowl appearance. Topped it off with a banner recruiting year (top five nationally). Remains an entrenched powerhouse in Big Orange nation leading a football program and financial rainmaker for the university and state that is near and dear to many top Tennessee CEOs and average Tennesseans alike.
93 | Dominique Thormann
Sr. Vice President • Nissan North America
Among the highest-ranking Nashville-based executives for Nissan, the carmaker governed by a management committee that relocated its North American headquarters to Tennessee last year. Thormann oversees all finance, legal, HR, business strategy, corporate communications, captive finance, security, corporate aviation and audit. Given the current imperative of integrating hundreds of new employees, fashioning a corporate culture in a new town and yet still producing results, Thormann’s role with the company may be at present the most important company-wide.
92 | William C. Rhodes
President & CEO • AutoZone
Heads one of the Bluff City’s most conspicuous public companies, the $6 billion revenue Fortune 500 retailer of auto parts and accessories with over 3,800 stores and around 30,200 employees. Member, Memphis Tomorrow, consortium of 24 elite Memphis CEOs focused on getting traction on the city’s biggest projects, opportunities and problems.
91 | Frank Ricks
Principal • Looney Ricks Kiss
Founder of architecture powerhouse with offices in Memphis, Nashville, Florida and New Jersey. Company designed Stax Museum, FedExForum and AutoZone Park in Memphis. Tennessee’s foremost “smart growth” proponent working to get traction with powers that be in state government (including Gov. Bredesen) on statewide strategies to make Tennessee a national model for preserving its physical character and heritage (and by extension driving economic development).
90 | Bishop William H. Graves
Senior Bishop • Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
First Memphian, African American and clergyman selected (and congressionally confirmed) to sit on Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) board, which provides electricity to 158 distributors serving 8.6 million consumers in Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, North Carolina and Virginia. Term expires later this year. Co-chaired President Bush’s 2004 re-election effort in Shelby County. Twenty-year chairman of Jackson’s Lane College. National board member, NAACP. 42nd CME Church Bishop presiding over First Episcopal District (Arkansas and Tennessee).
89 | Byron Trauger
Lawyer-lobbyist • Trauger & Tuke
Gov. Bredesen’s private attorney and intermediary to the governor’s blind trust. As such, a pure conduit to the state’s most powerful man. Law practice focuses mainly on the business of health care. Years ago, on a pro bono basis, helped head legal work that brought the Titans to Tennessee. Chair, Governor’s Books from Birth Foundation (the partnership with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library). Wife Aleta is a U.S. District Court Judge.
88 | Autry O.V. “Pete” DeBusk
Chairman & CEO • DeRoyal Industries
Powell-based businessman, entrepreneur, philanthropist and innovator who founded huge medical equipment and surgical supplies company that now employs more than 2,000 in 38 countries. Harrogate-based Lincoln Memorial University graduate turned board chairman and primary thrust behind a $15 million College of Osteopathic Medicine, the first such school accredited by the American Osteopathic Association in Tennessee and one of just 20 nationally. Wealthy backer of Gov. Bredesen in East Tennessee.
87 | Pat Miller
Director • Tennessee Regulatory Authority
Key TRA director setting rates and service standards of privately owned telephone, natural gas, electric and water utilities. Member, state-sponsored Tennessee Broadband Task Force, which recently issued a report boldly calling for enhanced high speed Internet access for the sake of business and quality of life across state. Past chief of staff, former Lt. Gov. John Wilder, who like many Wilder appointees remains well connected on the Hill.
86 | Tommy Bragg
Mayor of Murfreesboro
Re-elected in unopposed fashion as mayor of Tennessee’s sixth largest and fastest-growing city (pop. 81,000) in 2006. Also current president of the Tennessee Municipal League, championing the concerns of cities and towns across Tennessee before the state General Assembly. A respected entity on the Hill as the son of immensely popular former state Rep. John Bragg, longtime House Finance chair and author of the nation’s first child seat belt law.
85 | Gary Odom
House Majority Leader • Tennessee House of Representatives
Recently selected by House peers to replace departed Kim McMillan. Job entails spearheading legislative agenda of Democrats and Gov. Bredesen in the lower chamber. An independent that has clashed with Bredesen and House Speaker Jimmy Naifeh (#5) over policy positions in the past, Odom is perhaps a reminder from the Democratic caucus to Speaker Naifeh that he can’t steamroll that body.
84 | Lincoln Davis
4th District Congressman
Represents broad swath of rural East Tennessee as member of the new Democratic majority. But makes list more for prowess as a political animal than a policy tool in Washington D.C. Always heavily involved in other people’s campaigns (chaired the recent Ford Jr. for Senate campaign), Davis’ hip-tight relationships with party faithful across state is expected to bolster an eventual gubernatorial run by the former state Senator from Pall Mall.
83 | Michael D. Rose
Chairman • First Horizon National Corp.
Following retirement of chairman and CEO Ken Glass, assumes chairmanship of state’s largest bank (over $21 billion in deposits, a leading 20.68% of market share, 2006 FDIC). FHN employs over 12,000 in over 40 states. Also chairman, executive committee, Nashville’s Gaylord Entertainment Co. board of directors (former Gaylord chairman, 2001-2005, a period of great change). Other boards: Darden Restaurants (Red Lobster, Olive Garden), General Mills and Stein Mart.
82 | O. Mason Hawkins
CEO • Southeastern Asset Management
Tennessee’s greatest money manager. With G. Staley Cates (#76), runs Memphis-based, independently owned money management/investment advisory firm, which manages more than $34 billion in assets, including the Longleaf Partners Funds, a group of mutual funds that consistently ranks among the nation’s best performers. World-renowned investor who founded Southeastern three decades ago and who has perhaps made more money for more people than any other single Tennessean. Board, Memphis Tomorrow.
81 | Gary Shorb
President & CEO • Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare
Operates six adult hospitals and a Children’s Medical Center, employing in excess of 10,000 Memphians (the city’s second largest private employer) and with over $1 billion in net revenue (America’s third largest health care system). Also on board of two behind-the-scenes power broker organizations in Memphis—The University of Memphis Board of Visitors and Memphis Tomorrow (vice chair). Recent past chairman, Memphis Area Chamber of Commerce.
80 | Rosalind Kurita
State Senator • Tennessee Gen. Assembly
Clarksville Democrat sent shockwaves through the state’s political sphere—and Tennessee political history—by casting lone dissenting Democratic vote for new Republican Lt. Governor/Senate Speaker Ron Ramsey (#6). The vote put a nail in the 36-year reign of octogenarian John Wilder, granting Tennessee Republicans control of the state’s upper chamber for the first time since Reconstruction. Later named Senate speaker pro tempore, the Senate’s second highest ranking post. Potential 2010 gubernatorial candidate.
79 | Joe Galante
Chairman • Sony BMG Nashville
Rare beneficiary of music industry consolidation who recently took control over all Sony BMG country labels—a single powerhouse entity that includes Arista Nashville, BNA, Columbia Nashville, RCA Nashville and others. Artist careers he pilots include Gretchen Wilson, Alan Jackson, Kenny Chesney and more. Successfully and smartly rolled out the career of former American idol Carrie Underwood and continues to capitalize on Idol country acts, including Kellie Pickler.
78 | Pedro Garcia
Superintendent • Metro Nashville Davidson County Schools
Voters recently elected slate of new board members openly backing Garcia, whose contract the previous board didn’t extend. Thus, Garcia is once again the strongly entrenched leader of the 122-school, 74,000-student, $570 million Nashville system, point man in city’s efforts to drive up academic achievement and thereby economic development. Departure of term-limited Nashville Mayor Bill Purcell means Garcia soon won’t have to share the limelight of educational improvement.
77 | Charlie Anderson Jr.
Senior Executive • Anderson News Co.
Runs a top U.S. magazine distributor, employing 10,000 and reaching 45 states. Also runs Books-A-Million bookstore chain, America’s third largest. Led Knoxville-based company’s expansion into music distribution (Anderson Merchandisers) in 1994 and is now the nation’s largest distributor of pre-recorded music and the exclusive distributor for retail behemoth Wal-Mart. Past chairman, Country Music Association (CMA), with tremendous clout on Nashville’s Music Row.
76 | G. Staley Cates
President • Southeastern Asset Management
Partner with Hawkins. Also, with AutoZone founder Pitt Hyde, comprises primary local ownership group of the Memphis Grizzlies NBA franchise. Instrumental in bringing the franchise to town, ending the city’s three-decades of futility trying to attract pro sports. Recently played a key role in protecting the city from a flawed proposal to purchase the team and at press time was reportedly eyeing the $200 million plus majority purchase himself.
75 | Allan Jones
Founder, Chairman & CEO • Jones Management
Personifies the power of personal wealth accrued through Cleveland-based Check Into Cash (1,250 stores in 37 states). A philanthropic force throughout East Tennessee, from reviving Cleveland’s downtown to bolstering UT-Chattanooga’s wrestling program and UT-Knoxville’s aquatic program. Politically connected and quick to defend his industry, Jones founded the trade association working to root out rogue lenders. Georgia lawmakers are currently repealing ban on stores like Jones’ given rampant border crossings.
74 | William E. Evans
Director & CEO • St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Runs one of nation’s most recognized and lauded institutions, the world’s largest cancer center devoted solely to children, with programs in over 20 countries worldwide, and a daily operating budget of over $1.2 million. Leads over 3,300 employees working to find cures for catastrophic diseases in children. Ranked #1 among U.S. medical institutions in the 2006 Scientist magazine poll of “Best Places to Work in Academia.” (See cover story, pg. 44.)
73 | Ron Littlefield
Mayor of Chattanooga
Now into second year as mayor of Tennessee’s fourth largest city. Professionally an urban planner and Realtor involved in commercial and industrial development. Since taking office, has repurposed city’s focus from 20-year downtown redevelopment effort to improving city neighborhoods.
72 | Gordon Bonnyman Jr.
FoUNDER/Executive Director • Tennessee Justice Center
Nationally recognized public interest lawyer representing Tennessee’s poor, playing key roles in TennCare legislation and litigation, including strong stands to which the governor attributes the program’s demise. Mastery of federal courts and results he has achieved for the disenfranchised in areas beyond state health insurance program make Bonnyman a hero to proponents of social justice and change.
71 | Gerald Boyd
Manager of Oak Ridge Operations • U.S. Department of Energy
Top federal official in Oak Ridge with oversight of all Department of Energy facilities and assets there (as well as contractors UT-Battelle and BWXT). Essentially the CEO of a multi-billion business that contributes mightily to Tennessee’s business success and climate. DOE and its federal contractors represent about 12,000 Tennessee jobs with direct wages and salaries totaling more than $650 million.
70 | Susan Richardson Williams
Public Relations Executive • SRW & Associates
Current UT board member, former state commissioner and state GOP party chairman, member of TVA’s board. Conservationist Republican who skillfully maneuvered changes to the TVA land management policy through an 8-1 vote of the new board to halt land sales and swaps of TVA’s remaining 293,000 acres of protected shoreline with residential developers, leaving behind a legacy that many believe will benefit the Valley for years to come.
69 | Barbara Hyde
Philanthropist
Go-to philanthropist in Memphis. With husband Pitt, comprises half of one of Memphis’ most wealthy and generous couples. Hyde Family Foundation contributes millions of dollars annually to Bluff City causes, including efforts to advance public education through greater school choice like charter schools. Part-owner of the Memphis Grizzlies basketball team, which she helped recruit to the city.
68 | Dennis C. Bottorff
Chairman & Partner • Council Ventures
Former AmSouth chairman, First American CEO now heading Nashville-based venture capital firm. TVA board member heading rates and finance committee determining how much industry, commercial and residential customers pay for electricity, a key to economic expansion. (TVA recently announced its first electric rate cut since 1988.) Chairman, Tennessee Lottery, which has overflowed with unbudgeted revenue for lawmakers to spend. Board service includes Dollar General, Ingram Industries, Vanderbilt University.
67 | Jerry Winters
Lobbyist • Tennessee Education Association
Voice of 40,000 Tennessee public school teachers (an enormous voting bloc and PAC contributor) with a seat at the table of every significant public education policy discussion on Capitol Hill. Effectiveness has, however, been limited by the Republican-controlled Senate—even more so this year with a Republican Senate Majority leader intent on improving access to charter schools, which TEA strongly opposes.
66 | Robert Gowan
Senior AdvisEr to the Governor for Legislation & Policy • State of Tennessee
Gov. Phil Bredesen’s chief lobbyist, helping develop his legislative agenda, serving as administration’s key liaison to the General Assembly, communicating priorities. Giles County native is former assistant commissioner of the state commerce and insurance department where he was chief administrator for 22 state regulatory boards/licensing programs (including the state’s version of a boxing authority). Has great pull with boss given he’s not looking for another post or eyeing elected office.
65 | Matt Kisber
Commissioner • Tennessee Dept. of Economic & Community Development
Point person doing bulk of face time in negotiating with top businesspeople around the state (and world) to spur economic growth throughout Tennessee. Empowered with state’s nearly $30 million “fast track” money—walking around cash for tax credits and infrastructure improvements used to prime business investment in Tennessee. Former Jackson lawmaker who chaired powerful House Finance Committee and who maintains plenty of personal capital with House Democratic leadership.
64 | Dennis Vonderfecht
President & CEO • Mountain States Health Alliance
Heads Johnson City-based not-for-profit hospital system with 10 hospitals and 5,000 employees providing care across a 28-county area. 15-year president & CEO led MSHA acquisition of six facilities in 1998, more than doubling in size. Past chairman, Tennessee Hospital Association (THA). Heavily invested in numerous local civic organizations.
63 | Lois DeBerry
House Speaker Pro Tempore • Tennessee General Assembly
First African-American and first female House Speaker pro tempore in state history. Gets a vote on every committee in the House if she chooses. House Speaker Jimmy Naifeh’s power source due to her ability to deliver him the black legislative caucus votes he needs to remain speaker. Most powerful African American and woman in Tennessee state politics and among the most powerful nationally.
62 | Claude Ramsey
Mayor of Hamilton County
Three-term elected CEO of Hamilton County whose announcement last year that he would run again for reelection scattered pursuit of the office by several high-profile candidates. Legacy will be work attracting manufacturing operations to Enterprise South industrial park after serving as a driving force for the transfer of the 1,200-acre property from the U.S. Army.
61 | Henry Luken
Chairman • Covista Communications
As first reported by BTN, recently announced plans to establish a luxury yacht-building operation in East Tennessee (already part-owner of Washington-based Christiansen Yachts). Investor in fast-growing Knoxville-based Jewelry Television. Founded long distance company Telco Communications, selling his interest for $230 million, then purchasing 30% of telecommunications service provider Covista, relocating it to Chattanooga. Last year, purchased 36 office and retail buildings from now U.S. Senator Bob Corker.
60| Deborah Tate
Commissioner • Federal Communications Commission
Lame duck member of the FCC board appointed by President Bush, but widely considered the key swing vote that will decide media cross-ownership rules now under consideration (which will shape media markets for years to come). Former Tennessee Regulatory Authority (TRA) director now regulating television and radio broadcasters and telephone and Internet service nationally, making judgment calls on such issues as the BellSouth/AT&T merger. Spearheaded recent Nashville FCC meeting.
59 | Phil Trenary
President & CEO • Pinnacle Airlines Corp.
Recently brokered deal to continue regional flights for Northwest Airlines through 2017, paying Pinnacle less but granting it first-time rights to fly for other carriers. Move secured Pinnacle’s immediate future in Memphis and 1,000 local jobs. Promptly acquired 1,100 employee Colgan Air (and its contracts with United, Continental and US Airways), broadening publicly traded holding company’s reach. Serves on boards of Memphis Tomorrow (focused on Memphis’ musical heritage) and Memphis Bioworks Foundation.
58 | Harry Jacobson
Vice Chancellor, Health Affairs • Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Through recent eHealth initiatives, research commercialization and massive capital improvements ($1 billion over past five years), is steadily increasing VUMC’s reputation as a leading health institution. Co-founder of publicly traded Renal Care Group, which sold last year to German company Fresenius for $3.5 billion just 11 years after forming. Has since launched Radiation Oncology Services of America, a national network of outpatient radiation oncology centers.
57 | Steve Reynolds
President & CEO • Baptist Memorial Healthcare Corp.
Head of Memphis-based system of 14 hospitals throughout the Mid-South (nine in Tennessee). Oversees 13,000 employees. Total Memphis community benefit of BMHCC exceeds $300 million annually, much of it in charity and uncompensated care. Serves on numerous national boards, including Memphis-based Ducks Unlimited. Member, Memphis Tomorrow.
56 | Bob Cooper
Attorney General • State of Tennessee
Prior to recent selection as Tennessee’s new AG, Cooper was chief legal counsel in the governor’s administration. Now serves as the state’s chief legal officer representing consumers on the national stage. Legal adviser to state agencies and lawmakers. Prosecutes all criminal cases in the appellate courts. Recently compelled Fisk University to seek alternate means of raising money to forestall sale of multi-million dollar art pieces donated by Georgia O’Keeffe.
55 | Fred Decosimo
Principal • Joseph Decosimo & Co.
Partner in one of the nation’s largest accounting firms (which has a presence across the state), as well as an investment banking arm with $17 billion in completed transactions over the past three decades. Like his legendary father Joe before him, a force in political fundraising and community involvement. One of the few Tennesseans who attained Pioneer status, raising $100,000 or more for the 2004 Bush campaign.
54 | Jack B. Turner
President • Jack B. Turner & Associates
One of the highest-profile insurance brokers in America. Founding president of Leadership Clarksville. The most prolific entrepreneur and philanthropist in Clarksville, which is Tennessee’s fifth largest city, and which incorporates a portion of the Fort Campbell Army base. Civilian aide to the Secretary of the Army, Turner has been his city’s most active lobbyist for base funding.
53 | Johnny Hayes
Political consultant • Democratic Party
The most powerful Democrat in Tennessee behind the scenes. Bag man all Democratic candidates want (and need) backing them. Hasn’t put weight behind any current presidential candidate—yet. Former everything. National finance chair for Gore 2000. Finance committee head of Phil Bredesen’s successful 2002 gubernatorial campaign. TVA director. State ECD commissioner. Well-placed outside the governor’s administration, yet still able to influence him.
52 | G.E. Patterson
Presiding Bishop • Church of God in Christ (COGIC)
Leads nation’s largest Pentecostal denomination with more than six million members in 54 countries. Based in Memphis, COGIC recently held its 99th annual convention (the city’s largest annual conference), drawing around 50,000 worshippers to the Bluff City for a week and creating a $30 million economic impact.
51 | Kim McMillan
Senior AdvisEr to the Governor • State of Tennessee
The cabinet level, senior staff title is fancy, but McMillan’s power arguably has slid since last year when she was an elected lawmaker and Majority Leader of the House Democrats (the first female Tennessean ever to hold that post). Must adjust from the world of House Speaker Naifeh to the universe of Gov. Bredesen. Without question has pull with House members. Talked-about potential 2010 gubernatorial candidate.
50 | Edwin “Mac” Crawford
Chairman, President & CEO • Caremark Rx
Heads publicly traded Nashville-based pharmacy benefit manager, which he relocated to Nashville in 2003, and which he is in the process of trying to merge with pharmacy chain CVS. One of America’s most successful turnaround specialists who took a worthless practice management business and forged one of the largest processors of prescriptions. Institutional Investor magazine recently named Crawford the top performing health care technology and distribution CEO in America.
49 | Colin Reed
President & CEO • Gaylord Entertainment Co.
Recently unveiled $400 million Opryland expansion plan (adding to what is already the largest convention hotel outside Vegas) amid discussion of a proposed city-owned downtown Nashville facility. Craftily used that public proposal to finagle incentives from government, enabling Gaylord’s expansion. Has transformed Gaylord, shedding non-core holdings—though Gaylord still owns Nashville crown jewel the Grand Ole Opry—and forging more of a pure hospitality giant (planning 10 new hotels in a decade).
48 | Bruce Hartmann
President & Publisher • Knoxville News Sentinel
Runs Knoxville News Sentinel, with its circulation of over 121,000 daily and over 153,000 on Sunday. Recently rolled out new monthly business publication in concert with Knox Area Chamber of Commerce. Newest board is Friends of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Previously chaired Tennessee Theatre Foundation efforts, raising $24 million in restoration funding. Credited with aiding Gov. Bredesen’s surprising win in Knox County in close 2002 election.
47 | Jim Cooper
5th District Congressman
Policy co-chair of powerful Blue Dog Coalition comprised of more than 50 deficit-hawkish, socially conservative Democrats now equipped with a lot of bargaining power in the Democratic-controlled House. Member, Armed Services Committee, spearheading call for Iraq war strategy shift. Recently added to congressional watchdog committee, targeting waste and fraud. A highly respected go-to guy for new majority in nation’s Capitol.
46 | Steve Gill
Radio talk show host / television personality • WLAC 1510 AM/WKRN News Channel 2
Conservative political commentator who departed WWTN-FM last June, later joining Nashville radio station WLAC 1510 AM airing a program syndicated statewide. Also made foray into local television. Two-time Republican congressional nominee, barely losing in 1994. A still talked about future political candidate. Member, 1977 SEC champion UT men’s basketball squad. An opinion maker across Tennessee instrumental in sparking the horn-honking Capitol Hill income tax protest in 2002.
45 | Tom Kilgore
CEO • Tennessee Valley Authority
Named first ever full-time CEO of TVA as a result of the new congressionally approved management structure of the nation’s largest utility. Oversees a $9 billion in annual revenue business where he is responsible for day-to-day operations involving 12,000 employees as well as implementation of new strategic plan that calls for TVA to be a self-financing agency. Paid $1.6 million annually for his efforts.
44 | Jeff Wadsworth
Director • Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Heads globally significant facilities that house the $1.4 billion Spallation Neutron Source, the world’s largest civilian science project; the Department of Energy’s first nanoscience center; and the world’s largest non-classified computer. Under Wadsworth, ORNL has emerged as arguably America’s most relevant National Lab and the preferred location of federal decision makers for important and big dollar scientific endeavors. (Could a more public leading role on alternative fuels research be next?)
43 | Paul E. Stanton Jr.
President • East Tennessee State University
Led ETSU, a major player in economic development throughout upper East Tennessee, through tough economic times while student enrollment was setting records. Applied business mindset to great effect amid ever-shrinking higher ed resources, largely through forging public-private partnerships. ETSU historically experiences the most private giving among Board of Regents schools, leading to new doctoral programs, including recent College of Pharmacy. Recently signed off on re-starting dormant ETSU football program.
42 | Shirley Raines
President • University of Memphis
Spearheading university’s efforts to break free of state Board of Regents and become more of a flagship Memphis university that is in turn more responsive to the local community. University is emerging as a partner to local business in building Memphis’ regional economy, job development and technology transfer. First female leader of Memphis Area Chamber of Commerce. Member, Memphis Tomorrow.
41 | A C Wharton Jr.
Mayor • Shelby County
Charismatic leader working to address Shelby County’s perilous financial situation, in part by lobbying state lawmakers on various proposals aimed at greater local control. In a Memphis area political landscape littered with stories of corruption, Wharton sticks out as a highly respected, ethical force. Term-limited, he is politically free now to make the necessary, if difficult, local changes he deems cost-efficient (like converting some elected positions into appointed ones).
40 | Mike Ragsdale
Mayor • Knox County
Recently re-elected president, state association of county mayors—an ideal platform to nurse a future gubernatorial run. Lack of personal wealth—though not qualification or personality—needed to be successful in that endeavor may hold him back. Despite recent acrid political environment, has helped turn county around with ability to govern, make friends, accentuate the positive and produce results.
39 | John “Thunder” Thornton
Founder • Thunder Enterprises
Recent land swap with TVA opened up development on Nickajack Lake, moving Thornton to the head of class among state’s developers spearheading Tennessee’s retirement industry. Also developing $500 million Loudon community with golfer Greg Norman. Launched career selling rugs to Wal-Mart. New TVA policy halting future swaps limits his prowess. So too did Gov. Bredesen’s decision not to reappoint Thornton to UT’s board (despite endorsement of “Republicans for Bredesen”).
38 | Dave Cooley
Principal • Cooley Public Strategies
Political strategy whiz that recently departed post as Tennessee’s Deputy Governor (running day-to-day operations of the $25 billion business that is state government). Gov. Bredesen’s longtime trusted adviser, Cooley has now formed a consulting group attached to Tennessee’s largest public relations firm, McNeely, Pigott & Fox. Well placed outside the administration but with unsurpassed access to it, Cooley’s power remains strong across the state’s business and political spheres.
37 | Bob Corker
U.S. Senator
Revered former Chattanooga mayor turned nation’s lone freshman GOP senator. Raised over $18 million ($4 million in personal wealth) getting elected to one of only three true statewide elected posts in Tennessee. Committees include Energy, Foreign Relations, Aging and Small Business. A congressional back-bencher at present, but considering predecessor Bill Frist’s focus on national and international issues, Corker may accomplish more than expected with Tennessee as his sole focus.
36 | Zach Wamp
3rd District Congressman
While it would be better for Tennessee to have a majority Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee controlling where federal spending goes, that committee is historically less partisan than many, so Wamp’s presence on Tennessee’s behalf remains crucial (consider ongoing Chickamauga Lock funding). Wamp is also revered by East Tennessee leaders, in part for his role in the life of the Tennessee Valley Technology Corridor, a business development phenomenon.
35 | Pat Summitt
Lady Vols basketball coach • University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Winningest coach in college basketball history—including Bobby Knight. Cheatham County native who fashioned the template for income-producing women’s college game nationally (and deserves much credit for the viability of the pro women’s game as well). As the genesis of such parity, it is all the more impressive that she remains a top-five program year in and year out. Like Dolly Parton, a recognized Tennessee brand in international circles.
34 | Mike Curb
Founder & Chairman • Curb Records
Leads country music’s most prolific independent record label, the one on the most equal footing with the global music companies operating in Music City. Given the rapid growth of that niche in recent years stemming from industry consolidation, Curb’s legacy can now also be infused with pioneer status. Philanthropist focused on restoring historic music industry locations like RCA Studio B (to the tune of about $50 million since 1997). Recently bought Elvis Presley’s historic first home in Memphis ($1 million), part of new $5 million music institute at Rhodes College (others are in place at Vanderbilt, Fisk and Belmont universities—where the business school is named after him).
33 | Jim Moss
CEO • West Tennessee Healthcare
Runs Jackson-based nonprofit health care system spanning six hospitals—one of the largest employers in West Tennessee. A towering figure in area business and politics whose prowess for maintaining market control of health care across a broad swath of West Tennessee is the stuff of business legend. Currently responsible for $117.3 million expansion project. Retiring later this year.
32 | Bill Haslam
Mayor of Knoxville
Now three years on the job, the former Pilot Corp. and Saks executive and member of the prominent Haslam family has become a legitimate prospect for governor. With the Haslam family purse strings (and East Tennessee political heft), he would be under any circumstances. Well regarded for business-like approach to running city government. Knoxville is in strong financial shape and increasingly the darling of national business press.
31 | Bill Sansom
Chairman & CEO • H.T. Hackney Co.
Owns and runs one of Tennessee’s largest private companies, $3 billion plus, 116-year-old, Knoxville-based wholesale food distribution business (serving 20,000 independent grocers with 25,000 different products). Subsidiaries include bottled water company and furniture manufacturing outfits. New chairman of TVA, the nation’s largest utility, steering it toward a nuclear future. Former state commissioner of transportation and finance. Cross-state public company board service includes Mid-America Apartment Communities, First Horizon and Astec.
30 | Jimmy Haslam
CEO • Pilot Corp.
Leading Tennessee’s second largest privately held company, Pilot Corp., 50% owner of the nation’s largest travel center operator. Has grown father’s company to more than 270 locations, and, by introducing fast food partnerships, has become one of America’s largest restaurant franchise operators. Reunited company with Marathon. Purchased Williams Travel Centers. Steadily supplanting father as both the chief business and political fundraising force in East Tennessee.
29 | Julius Johnson
Chief administrative officer/lobbyist • Tennessee Farm Bureau
Columbia-based voice of the largest Farm Bureau Federation in the United States based on membership and one of the top insurance companies in Tennessee. As such, steers the most powerful lobby watching over the state’s legislative process and actions of largely rurally elected lawmakers. Represents state’s agricultural sector and its tens of billions of dollars in annual output, now benefiting from over $60 million in state investments in alternative fuels research.
28 | Gordon Gee
Chancellor • Vanderbilt University
CEO of Nashville’s largest private employer and one of the nation’s 10 most productive research institutions, which for Nashville surpasses the community and economic impact (in the billions of dollars annually) of any local public or private company. Strong voice for collegiate athletics/academics reform, to the dismay of SEC athletics directors. Weathering a wave of negative press, recently centering on a living wage fight with a group of VU’s 20,000 employees.
27| Scott Niswonger
Philanthropist
Founded truckload/cargo company Landair with $2,000 in 1981 (and later, spin-off Forward Air). Now among state’s wealthiest individuals with great access to state’s leaders. Funded sportsplex at Tusculum College, enhancing student enrollment and Greeneville community’s economic vibrancy. Niswonger Foundation’s work in public education is producing profound effects by employing tactics that include intensive summer school, rigorous teacher education and virtual classrooms for students in remote upper East Tennessee locales.
26 | John Tanner
8th District Congressman
Union City Democrat and founding member of powerful centrist Blue Dog Coalition. Long-time critic of runaway federal spending, foreign ownership of U.S. debt and lack of federal agency auditing now empowered to do something about it. Member, House Ways and Means Committee (with tax-writing authority and Social Security oversight) and House Foreign Affairs Committee. Also chairman of U.S. delegation to NATO Parliamentary Assembly, demanding fiscal accountability in Iraq.
25 | Dave Ramsey
Radio show host & best-selling author • The Dave Ramsey Show
Influencing the spending, saving and giving habits of a generation (or two). Bestows money management wisdom on over 300 radio affiliates nationwide (nearly three million listeners). Heads Financial Peace University, serving over 340,000 families. Syndicated column boasts three million readers. High school financial curriculum is used in 1,200 schools in 46 states. Expanding empire with network television money makeover reality series. Umbrella organization, 170-employee Brentwood-based Lampo Group, is among state’s fastest-growing private companies.
24 | Dave Goetz
Commissioner • Dept. of Finance & Administration, State of Tennessee
Leads state’s most sprawling department primarily responsible for state finances. Authors the state budget. Former reporter turned business association lobbyist who effectively lobbies the Tennessee legislature on boss Gov. Bredesen’s behalf. Power and influence is expanded in light of recent high-profile administrative departures including Anna Windrow, Dave Cooley and Paula Flowers.
23 | Stuart Brunson
Deputy Governor • State of Tennessee
Holds highest-ranking, non-elected position in state as Gov. Bredesen’s chief political adviser/enforcer and top aide. Fayette County native and son of a Memphis cotton broker whose soft-spoken, mild-mannered style contrasts with his predecessor, Dave Cooley. Bredesen’s big picture guy with political pull across state. Managed both of Bredesen’s successful gubernatorial campaigns. Former VP of Qualifacts, a Bredesen-owned health care information company. Former staffer for Al Gore.
22 | Carol Johnson
Superintendent • Memphis City Schools
CEO of Tennessee’s largest school system, 21st largest metropolitan system nationally, with over 118,000 students, 185 schools and 16,500 employees. Equivalent of a corporate turnaround specialist who has shuttered schools, shed bureaucrats and repurposed system, which, for the first time since No Child Left Behind was instituted, reached “Good Standing” measurement (and removed 21 more schools from the “high priority” list). Introduced federal grant incentivizing good teachers. Member, Memphis Tomorrow.
21 | Brian Ferguson
CEO • Eastman Chemical
Runs company employing 11,000 worldwide—7,500 in Kingsport—manufacturing and marketing chemicals, fibers and plastics—the world’s largest producer of PET polymers for packaging. 2006 sales of $7.5 billion. Recently restructured PET business, selling operations in Spain. Simultaneously expanded operations in India’s domestic market. Key cog, Tri-Cities Economic Development Alliance, aimed at attracting high-paying jobs to the region (which gained 7,800 jobs in 4th quarter 2006, a seventh consecutive increase).
20 | Jim Ayers
Philanthropist
Built wealth in nursing home business before starting Lexington-based FirstBank. Real estate tycoon also heavily invested in automotive and health care sectors, among others. Through Ayers Foundation, helps make scholarships available to every high school graduate in Decatur County (increased degree pursuers from 25% to around 90%). Expanding concept statewide. Also offers scholarships to teachers seeking master’s degrees.
19 | Jim Clayton
Founder • Clayton Homes
Legendary Knoxville businessman who sold his manufactured home empire to renowned investor Warren Buffett, grossing $474 million and raising East Tennessee’s business profile in the process. Now having a profound impact on the East Tennessee region via venture capital. Also building a statewide community banking empire, FSB Bancshares. And boldly and profitably consolidating the manufactured housing lending market. Clayton Homes donated tons of mobile homes following Hurricane Katrina disaster.
18 | John Faraci
Chairman & CEO • International Paper
After relocating one of America’s largest public companies to Memphis last year, has successfully (and to great critical acclaim) reinvented the forest and paper products company as a leaner, tree-less company producing shareholder value. Arrival set off a wave of economic development and new corporate relocations to the Bluff City. Among Tennessee’s most high-profile CEOs, globally speaking, and a member of the National Park Foundation board. Member, Memphis Tomorrow.
17 | Bill Purcell
Mayor • Metro Nashville-Davidson County
Lame duck (though feared and respected) mayor whose legacy of steady conservative fiscal stewardship of city, which yielded tremendous corporate relocation gains, will serve him well in a possible future gubernatorial run (though his lack of personal wealth will not). Under Purcell’s watch the city is viewed as a national leader in business vitality. Recently flexed power in vetoing Metro Council’s “English first” bill, garnering national attention.
16 | Lamar Alexander
U.S. Senator
Tennessee’s senior senator, though in the minority party. Named to Senate Appropriations Committee determining where federal money flows. Also on the Environment Committee. Crafty politician who will find ways to be a player and affect Tennessee in positive ways despite his minority status. The only Tennessean popularly elected both governor and U.S. Senator. Former U.S. Education Secretary and UT president. Maryville native founded what’s now America’s largest provider of worksite daycare.
15 | Rep. Bart Gordon
6th District Congressman
Recently seated new Democratic chairman of the House Science Committee (Tennessee’s only committee chairman in nation’s capitol). The 22-year committee member from Murfreesboro is promising a bigger piece of the $30 billion annual pie for federal nonmilitary scientific and technology research and development programs for his home state. Peers agree and even insist that Gordon is now the most powerful member of Tennessee’s congressional delegation. It’s quite a leap from not appearing on the 2006 list to cracking the top 15 this year. But it is reflective of the power shift in Washington stemming from the November elections.
14 | Dolly Parton
Entertainer & Entrepreneur
Among nation’s most-recognized entertainers (recently awarded nation’s highest arts award, the Kennedy Center Honor), its leading tourism spokesperson and champion of children’s literacy (her Imagination Library program, through which 160,000 kids receive free books monthly, covers Tennessee and increasingly the United States). Businesswoman behind Pigeon Forge’s Dollywood amusement park, Tennessee’s top tourist attraction, drawing over two million visitors annually. Recently pledged $500,000 toward construction of replacement Fort Sanders Sevier Medical Center.
13 | Willie Herenton
Mayor • City of Memphis
Odds-on favorite to win unprecedented fifth term as Memphis mayor later this year. If successful, would end that term having served 20 years in the office. Formerly Memphis school superintendent turned city’s first black mayor, who has crushed his opposition in each re-election cycle to date. Recently proposed replacing Liberty Bowl football stadium with a new facility.
12 | Gerald Nicely
Commissioner • Tennessee Department of Transportation
Gov. Bredesen’s right-hand man called on in 2002 to usher in a new era of public interaction and consensus-building at formerly insular TDOT. Tabbed during last year’s highway trooper cronyism scandal as interim director of the Department of Safety. Against the backdrop of aging highways and budget cuts, will influence Bredesen’s policy direction on possible gas taxes, bond measures replacing pay-as-you-go formula or creation of toll roads.
11 | Jack O. Bovender Jr.
Chairman & CEO • Hospital Corporation of America
Leads America’s top for-profit hospital operator (179 hospitals, 104 free-standing surgery centers), Tennessee’s largest private company, which he recently helped steer private in a $21 billion buyout (in which he has an ownership stake). Company is a force on national health care policy. Board service includes Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, Nashville Healthcare Council and Nashville Airport Authority, among others.
10 | Tommy Frist
Co-founder • Hospital Corporation of America
Co-founder of HCA, for profit hospitals, and the key figure in Nashville’s identity as a global health care nexus (the city’s largest industry). Recently took company through its second leveraged buyout in its history, a $21 billion deal trumping all previous LBOs on Wall Street. Likely to steer public again in five years. Patriarch of one of Nashville’s wealthiest and most influential families who are among city’s greatest living philanthropists.
9 | Vicky Gregg
President & CEO • BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee
Leads Tennessee’s largest health insurer, recently selected to partner with the state and small business employers to provide health care insurance to working Tennesseans in the state’s new Cover Tennessee health care program. Expanding company through new subsidiaries—electronic health records and health management programming—forging the “New Blue.” Member, federal Commission on Systemic Interoperability, part of the Medicare Modernization Act. Overseeing $225 million-plus Chattanooga headquarters construction.
8 | James “Big Jim” Haslam II
Chairman • Pilot Corp.
Founded state’s second largest private company, co-owner of the largest operator of highway travel plazas in America and the largest seller of over-the-road diesel fuel. Company employs over 13,000 in 40 states and recently expanded footprint to Canada. Top Tennessee political fundraiser and currently (he is retiring soon) the most powerful University of Tennessee trustee (who gave school $34 million gift last year). Boards include First Horizon and Ruby Tuesday.
7 | John Petersen
President • University of Tennessee system
Chief operating officer of geographically diverse, well-staffed, multi-facility University of Tennessee system, making him a rare example of a person whose power is scattered from border to border in Tennessee. Now a few years in the position, and with a bold new strategic mission in place, Petersen is a person whose power is escalating fast as he emerges fully as a voice in statewide political and business circles.
6 | Ron Ramsey
Lt. Gov. • State of Tennessee
Blountville Republican who this year amassed the votes needed to at long last topple longtime Tennessee Lt. Gov. John Wilder from his Senate Speaker post. Vast new powers include selecting committee heads, determining the path of Senate legislation and serving as a roadblock to Gov. Phil Bredesen’s legislative agenda where deemed necessary by the GOP. Also appoints (or chooses not to re-appoint) citizen members to influential state boards and commissions.
5 | Jimmy Naifeh
House Speaker • Tennessee House of Representatives
The more things change, the more they stay the same. Amid political shake-up in the state Senate and U.S. Congress, Naifeh remains the iron fist of the Democrats in the state House, recently re-elected to his historic ninth term as Speaker. Covington lawmaker very seldom shares power with Republicans, wielding his legislative axe quietly but powerfully, using subcommittees to kill rival bills.
4 | Martha Ingram
CHAIRMAN • Ingram Industries
Matriarch of the over $2 billion Ingram family fortune. Chairman, Nashville-based Ingram Industries, a multi-billion dollar diversified private company among the largest in Middle Tennessee. Majority stockholder of Ingram Micro, the world’s largest technology products distributor, which she spun off. Arts benefactor extraordinaire who most recently chaired the fund-raising effort that culminated in the new $123.5 million downtown Nashville Schermerhorn Symphony Center. Boards include Vanderbilt and Weyerhauser.
3 | Fred Smith
Founder, chairman & CEO • FedEx Corp.
World-renowned businessman who created not just an industry in overnight air cargo delivery but also the ultimate economic magnet for Memphis by siting his operations there, making it the distribution/logistics/shipping capital of the world. As such, the Bluff City is home to an ever-increasing gaggle of smart companies that want to take competitive advantage of the direct connection Memphis offers to the global marketplace.
2 | J.R. “Pitt” Hyde Jr.
Chairman & CEO • Hyde Family Foundations
Founded retail auto parts giant AutoZone. Prime mover (largest local owner) attracting NBA’s Grizzlies to Memphis, fulfilling city’s dream of a pro sports franchise. Safeguarded city amid recent proposal (which fizzled) by prospective new team owners. Recent reports say Hyde may now buy the team outright. Board member FedEx and GTx, a public biotechnology company he founded, the poster child for city’s biotech push. Founding board member, Memphis Bioworks Foundation.
1 | Phil Bredesen
Governor • State of Tennessee
Won all 95 counties in November election, capturing the most votes by a gubernatorial campaign in state history—70%. Facing state Senate now fully under GOP control; but he’s armed with a clear mandate and the second term freedom to burn political capital where necessary. Terminated TennCare as we know it. Established statewide pre-K. Now working to hike the cigarette tax (raising $220 million for education), ban public smoking, buy up forestland, invest in alternative fuels research and implement his novel small business friendly health insurance program. Could end his term in office considered Tennessee’s most powerful governor ever.
Email to a Friend
Print-Friendly Format