Interview with Todd Sanders

Todd Sanders is president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Sanders took the reins at Arizona's oldest and largest Chamber in May after more than three years as the Chamber's vice president of public affairs and economic development. He previously served for seven sessions as a policy analyst in the Arizona House of Representatives.

Issues Brief asked Mr. Sanders about his priorities in his new position, issues for businesses during the economic downturn and Arizona's economic recovery.

Q: As the Chamber's new president and CEO, what are your priorities?

A: My current priorities include providing our 3,100 members with the tools necessary to weather the economic downturn and prepare for a return to growth. I also believe it's critical to give our members a voice at the State Capitol to ensure the production side of the economy is represented as lawmakers grapple with the multi-billion dollar deficit. Finally, for the longer term, there is much that needs to be done to make Arizona more attractive as a headquarter state and a place where small business can thrive.

Q: What does the Chamber recommend to businesses to help them weather the economic downturn?

A: We recommend that our members look at the economic downturn as an opportunity to go back to basics. Take a fresh look at what is working and what's not working and refine their business plans accordingly. In particular, we're telling our members to increase their marketing efforts, cut unnecessary costs and to utilize their chamber membership as a way to promote and grow their businesses. The economy will recover and we are committed to helping our members be positioned to take full advantage when it does.

Q: How should Arizona develop to best position itself for the future?

A: While diversifying our economy for the future is important, I think it is also critical we play to our historic strengths. We know that we will continue to grow—as our climate ensures that this will always be one of the best places in the country to live. That being said, we must also focus on responsibly using our natural resources in order to build a sustainable future.

Arizona is blessed to have large copper reserves, which could contribute significantly to our state's economic recovery. Resolution Copper's proposed operation in Superior, for example, has the potential for becoming a major economic driver for Arizona. This operation could ultimately provide thousands of well paying jobs, supply up to 20 percent of America's copper demand, while infusing over 46 billion into the economy - during the life of the project. All of this, while protecting Arizona's natural beauty. For the Chamber - this is a formula for success.

Q: The Chamber has been a big proponent of education and workforce development. Tell us why this is so important.

A: We believe that investing in education and workforce development must be a priority, for Arizona. Resolution Copper is a great example of a business whose investments in these areas will pay off not only for Resolution Copper, but for the community as a whole. I am particularly impressed with Resolution Copper's strong commitment to education, recognizing that thousands of local students will turn into the workers it will need in the coming decades. This kind of commitment and investment from our business, political and community leaders is essential to ensure a strong economic future for Arizona.

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