CONTACTS: Linda Rozett/Eric Wohlschlegel
(202) 463-5682 / 888-249-NEWS

 

 

 

WASHINGTON, DC-The U.S. Chamber of Commerce today named Gen. James L. Jones, former NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe, as president and CEO of the Chamber's new Institute for Energy.

 

"Gen. Jones knows firsthand the importance of energy to our economy, national security, and way of life," said U.S. Chamber President and CEO Tom Donohue. "He has the credibility, experience, and leadership to unify energy stakeholders behind a common strategy to ensure that America' energy supply is adequate, affordable, and secure, while protecting the environment."

 

The Chamber's new energy organization will be modeled after its highly successful Institute for Legal Reform. Under Gen. Jones' leadership, it will work in the Congress, federal agencies, the states, the international arena, the courts and the court of public opinion to shape commonsense energy and related regulatory, tax, infrastructure, and environmental policies.  Through a comprehensive program of public education and grassroots action, it will support the energy acquisition from traditional to alternative sources, a superior infrastructure to move fuel and power to consumers in a growing economy, increased energy efficiency, and the sound management of global climate change.

 

On February 1, 2007, Gen. Jones completed 40 years of active duty service. He most recently served successively as 32nd Commandant of the Marine Corps and Supreme Allied Commander Europe. He is a decorated combat veteran who has worked closely with government, business, and civic leaders to protect and advance U.S. and allied interests around the world. He has organized and chaired discussions on energy security and worked to elevate energy security as a core part of NATO's mission.

 

Gen. Jones has a Bachelor of Science degree and an Honorary Doctorate from Georgetown University. His personal decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Silver Star Medal, Legion of Merit with four gold stars, Bronze Star Medal with Combat "V", and the Combat Action Ribbon.

 

"I am excited and challenged by this new mission. America's energy security is critical to our success and survival as a nation and our ability to compete in a changing world," General Jones said. "The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is an organization that commands respect at home and abroad and makes important things happen. That's where I want to be in this new chapter of my career. "

 

The U.S. Chamber is the world's largest business federation, representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

 

www.uschamber.com    

 

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