The key takeaway from the recent Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s Leadership Summit emphasizes the qualities necessary for thriving communities: thoughtfulness, flexibility and nimbleness. Successful communities unite businesses, government bodies, educators and key stakeholders to adapt, progress and envision new avenues for growth. COMMUNITY LEADERS FORGE NEW NARRATIVE FOR OKC GROWTH AND SUCCESS
examined the growth trajectories of those cities over the past three decades. Delisi highlighted the need to redefine Oklahoma City's identity beyond its association with oil, gas and the NBA. He pointed out a perception gap among potential employees and corporate decision-makers, emphasizing the need to shape a narrative about the city's transformation and opportunities. “I don’t think they’re bad things. Oil and gas are an important part of the region’s history and its present and its future. And the Thunder has put [OKC] on the map,” Delisi said. “But today, we want to be talking about what else you want people to know about Greater Oklahoma City.” He noted a recent perception survey of site selectors, corporate decision-makers and potential employees, to see what they think about the greater Oklahoma City region. Many of the respondents believe OKC has improved and is getting better; but 36% of employees who participated in the survey had no opinion of greater OKC. And when asked about their awareness of the investments the city has made and the huge turnaround that has occurred in the community, 47% responded they had no idea. “That is an opportunity if I have ever seen one, not only to better tell the story of where you’ve been and from where you have come, but to tell the story of where you are going. If you are not changing peoples’ minds, you are letting people know what that story is going to be. And that is something that can start today,” Delisi said. Throughout the event, participants engaged in group activities and planning exercises, fostering discussions and generating ideas. These contributions will aid EY in shaping Oklahoma City's long-term economic development strategy. The strategic development process will extend into 2024, with an expected completion date in April.
During the summit, more than 200 community leaders gathered to formulate a strategy ensuring Oklahoma City's vibrancy and prosperity over the next 30 years. Ernst & Young LLP (EY) collaborated with the Chamber to craft a strategic plan for economic development, presenting data-driven insights into the region's competitive landscape. EY's Senior Manager Tony Delisi underscored the factors contributing to the community's success. Oklahoma City's expansion has placed it in a new league for business development, talent acquisition and innovation, prompting comparisons with cities like Austin, Nashville, Raleigh and Phoenix. Delisi
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