Steve Ammons Shares How the BBA is Working to Accelerate the Regional Economy
RCB President Gordon Martin and Rotarian Nick Willis with Steve Ammons
This week the Rotary Club of Birmingham (RCB) welcomed Steve Ammons, Birmingham Business Alliance President & CEO. He shared an overview of the BBA’s role as the Chamber of Commerce for the City of Birmingham as well as the economic development agency for the seven-county greater metropolitan area. He highlighted Birmingham’s advantages, including the intersection of five interstates, an inland port accessible to the coast, three class ! railroads and an international airport that is home to over 100 foreign-based companies representing more than 20 countries. Ammons shared that the 1.1 million population of the greater Birmingham area makes is the largest region in the state, responsible for one out of every three dollars generated statewide.
Ammons stressed the importance of regional cooperation and the need to market Birmingham to drive visitors, attract talent and grow jobs. He expressed excitement for the city’s new marketing campaign that highlights where “We have more…”
“We have to make sure we’re selling our brand, who we are,” Ammons said. “We know that if we can drive a visitor, if we can get someone to come here and take a look at us, we know that we can attract talent.'“
Bio for Steve Ammons
Steve Ammons is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Birmingham Business Alliance (BBA), bringing with him a strong background of experience in economic development, regional collaboration, advocacy and stakeholder engagement. Before his current role, Ammons served as a Jefferson County Commissioner for District 5, where he chaired the Economic Development Committee and the Information Technology Committee. Ammons served as the county's liaison to key economic development organizations, including the BBA, where he previously worked on projects as an active member of the Executive Committee and Board of Directors.
His dedication and leadership to public service led to numerous achievements, including the recruitment of the J.M. Smucker Company to the Greater Birmingham Region, resulting in a historic $1.2 billion capital investment. Additionally, he helped draft the Good Neighbors Pledge, a pact to combat poaching and foster long-term economic growth for the region. This initiative was eventually adopted by the entire Jefferson County Mayors Association, demonstrating his continued commitment to fostering positive relationships and promoting regional cooperation.
Ammons' passion for public safety stems from his background as a U.S. Navy veteran. He initiated the consolidation of 911 public safety answering points and championed legislation to enhance emergency management systems during his leadership at the county. Ammons also brings valuable experience from his previous service as a two-term member of the Vestavia Hills City Council, where he contributed to revenue growth and quality of life improvements for the city.
In addition to his time in public office, Ammons is also a long-time small business owner, professionally having owned and operated an employment background screening services company based in Birmingham. Ammons' leadership extends beyond professional endeavors. He is a devoted family man, a husband and a father of four children. He and his family are active members of the Church of the Highlands, and they currently reside in the Vestavia Hills community.