A dozen years ago, when he first began considering taking the helm of the Dallas Regional Chamber, Dale Petroskey wasn’t quite sure what a chamber even did. Since then, he has redefined the DRC, building it into one of the nation’s most influential business organizations—serving as a catalyst for economic development, talent attraction, and civic progress.
Now, it’s time to hand off the baton. Petroskey announced in July his intention to leave his post at the end of 2025 to spend more time with his wife, Ann, and their family. After a nationwide search led by Russell Reynolds Associates and a nine-member selection committee of past, current, and future DRC board chairs, a successor has been named.
Brad Cheves, senior vice president for development and external affairs at Southern Methodist University, will become president and CEO effective January 5, 2026. “It is a distinct honor to assume the role of president and CEO of the Dallas Regional Chamber, an organization that contributes so much to the quality of life and economic vibrancy of our region,” he said in a statement.
At SMU, Cheves has overseen the university’s fundraising, marketing, and community engagement efforts, helping shape its growth and reputation over more than two decades. He led major campaigns that elevated SMU’s national profile and strengthened ties with the broader Dallas community. Earlier in his career, he served at Pepperdine University, where he modernized advancement and communications operations.
A native of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Cheves earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and finance from Abilene Christian University and a Juris Doctor from Pepperdine University School of Law. He’s a member of the State Bar of Texas and has worked with the Texas State Legislature.
Beyond his professional achievements, Cheves serves on the boards of Broadway Dallas, the Dallas Assembly, the Dallas Council on Foreign Relations, the Texas Lyceum, the Circle Ten Council of Scouting America, and the Honorary Board and Men’s Advocacy Group of New Friends New Life.
During his nearly 12 years at the DRC, Petroskey grew the organization’s budget by more than 50 percent, allowing the region’s largest business chamber to invest millions back into the community through key initiatives. He was instrumental in positioning Dallas as a hub for emerging industries such as life sciences and applied artificial intelligence.
In 2022, the DRC was named National Chamber of the Year by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, which represents more than 1,600 organizations nationwide.
Since 2010, the DRC’s economic development efforts have helped attract more than 300 company headquarters to the Dallas region. During Petroskey’s tenure, the number of Fortune 500 companies in Dallas–Fort Worth grew by 33 percent, and more than 70 Fortune 1000 companies became DRC members.
“From a prosperity standpoint, there’s a lot more capability ahead,” Petroskey told D CEO. “We have the land, we have the talent, we have the location, and now we have a great concentration of businesses in every sector. In some ways, Dallas is just beginning. I think the future is limitless for Dallas.”
North Texas Business Leaders React
Local executives weigh in on Petroskey’s tenure and Cheves’ appointment:
Cynt Marshall, 2024 DRC Board Chair and president and CEO of Marshalling Resources: “Brad’s energy, ability to lead, and intimate knowledge of the region will serve us well as we enter a new era for the DRC.”
Jerry Jones, Dallas Cowboys: “This is such an exciting time for Dallas and our entire region, and having Brad Cheves take on this critical leadership role with the DRC is another important win for all of us.”
Jim Springfield, 2025 DRC Board Chair and president of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas: “Brad’s experience and connection with our community will serve stakeholders uniquely well as we build upon an outstanding foundation for the future.”
Darcy Anderson, 2026 DRC Board Chair and vice chairman of Hillwood, a Perot company: “Brad’s record of achievement and impact at SMU provides a strong foundation for advancing the DRC’s legacy of excellence while continuing the remarkable momentum built under Dale’s leadership.”
Jennifer Chandler, 2027 DRC Board Chair and Dallas president and head of Philanthropic Solutions at Bank of America: “Dale Petroskey’s leadership has been instrumental in elevating the DRC to national prominence. With record growth and continued opportunity ahead, we’re confident the DRC is well positioned for its next chapter.”
Author
Christine joined D Magazine Partners in 2010 and is editor of D CEO and its digital platforms. A national award-winning business journalist, she has covered North Texas since 2000. She’s especially proud of creating the Dallas 500, launching D CEO Greater Good, and building an exceptional editorial team. Originally from northern Michigan, she loves skiing in the U.S. and abroad, hiking trips to Lake Tahoe, stargazing, gardening, and playing pinball. More than anything, though, she treasures being a grandmother.
