‘Power player’ Joe Roman’s retirement from Greater Cleveland Partnership signals another end for old guard civic leaders
By: Eric Heisig, Cleveland.com
CLEVELAND, Ohio — Anyone with a big project proposed for Cleveland must go through Joe Roman.
The president and CEO of the Greater Cleveland Partnership – a chamber of commerce with more than 12,000 members – amassed his reputation over decades both in the city and with state leadership.
He is, for some, a catalyst for many of the most significant projects in the region and, for others, a door blocking the chance for real change in the civic community. From the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to the Gateway District, Roman had a large role.
“He clearly defines what a power player is,” said Brad Whitehead, the former president of The Fund for Our Economic Future. “He consolidates and exercises power to get things done.”
