Newsmakers and deal closers make the 2023 Inside Business Power List

Inside Business creates its annual Power List to showcase who’s who in terms of moving the needle for the economy in Hampton Roads, whether they be the decision-makers, the influencers or those working behind the scenes.

This year, we organized the Top 20 by types of influence or power rather than a numerical ranking. We then listed another 60 power players from various backgrounds and sectors. In researching movers and shakers, we looked at last year’s list and then looked at the newsmakers of the past year. We tried to take into account what has been on the top of most readers’ minds.

Major developments such as the completion of The Cavalier Resort campus at the Oceanfront, the opening of the region’s first casino in Portsmouth and the start of the Atlantic Park surf park in Virginia Beach all pack quite an economic punch in terms of long-term impact. The managing partners at Venture Realty Group who helped close the deal with Virginia Beach stakeholders and finalize financing on the largest public-private partnership in the city’s history merit some attention.

Pharrell Williams, in addition to him partnering in development efforts, also brought Something in the Water back to the Oceanfront and convened the Mighty Dream Forum in downtown Norfolk. His success and celebrity following helps create buy-in from residents and local leaders in addition to shining a national light on Hampton Roads.

We also highlight leaders in downtown Norfolk who are making a difference there in the wake of recent challenges. As inflation and rents rise amid a lack of homes on the market, we show who’s making a difference in the region in terms of adding affordable housing.

The Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters is tapping a major initiator of its mental health efforts, which led to the building of a 14-story pediatric hospital, as its next president and CEO.

We show the seasoned executives leading strategic efforts to grow the regional economy while also highlighting the continued importance of the port and the Newport News shipyard.

As people and their efforts peak or plateau in their influence, so too will the names on the list. Some longtime leaders listed on the Emeritus List will reappear in the main list as they achieve milestones or become the initiators of change again, and we are watching others in new positions to see what happens.

For instance, Dennis Ellmer jumped from the Emeritus List to the top list for his continued philanthropy, including creating a formal charitable arm at his company and contributing to health care efforts in our region.

The lists are compiled from information that’s publicly available, including public documents and website biographies, in addition to information given to Inside Business or reported in the Daily Press or The Virginian-Pilot. Special thanks to staff writer Trevor Metcalfe for helping to compile the Top 20 list.

We understand not everyone making a difference for our region is on this list, and we are open to learning more about who truly wields the power in Hampton Roads. Please email your suggestions to tbozick@dailypress.com or inside.business@insidebiz.com.