Oklahoma City Black Chamber Announces its New President & Chief Executive Officer

Dr. Carlos Robinson will succeed longtime executive Joanne Davis and assume the role on August 25th

Carlos M. Robinson, MBA, Ed.D.

OKLAHOMA CITY--The Oklahoma City Black Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce its Board of Directors has selected Carlos M. Robinson, MBA, Ed.D., as its new President & Chief Executive Officer, the Chamber’s first executive in a full-time capacity in its 36-year history. A lifelong advocate for economic equity, education, and community advancement, Dr. Robinson brings over 15 years of executive leadership spanning workforce development, higher education, nonprofit management, and strategic community partnerships.

“I am deeply honored to lead the Oklahoma City Black Chamber of Commerce at such a pivotal moment for our business community. My vision is to create an environment where Black and minority-owned businesses not only survive, but thrive, with access to the resources, partnerships, and advocacy they need to compete on every level,” Dr. Carlos said. “Together with our members, partners, and stakeholders, we will build a Chamber that is a powerful connector, a relentless advocate, and a driving force for sustainable growth and generational wealth in central Oklahoma and beyond.”

“Dr. Carlos’ vision for OKCBCC is bold and collaborative, which will foster a thriving business ecosystem where Black and minority entrepreneurs have the tools, networks, and advocacy needed to prosper locally and compete globally,” Board Chair Masood Abdul-Haqq said. “Under his leadership, we’re looking forward to our focus on expanding membership value, strengthening partnerships, promoting policy advocacy, and celebrating the excellence of Oklahoma City’s Black business community.”

Robinson’s appointment comes with the retirement of longtime Executive Director Joanne Davis, who has served in the Chamber’s top role since February 2020. Throughout her tenure, the Chamber and the Black business community faced numerous challenges amid the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through her tireless efforts and partnerships, many Black businesses were able to secure unprecedented amounts of capital, contracts and discover access to business support programs and accelerators, including the Chamber’s inaugural small business conference. The Chamber also saw immense growth in its internal operations with a full rebrand, full bylaws update, new board structure and the creation of its part-time Operations Coordinator role. Most notably, Joanne’s longtime government contracting experience and advocacy brought new opportunities to countless minority businesses in the Oklahoma City area, ensuring that local leaders understood the real and persistent issues facing Black businesses.

“It has been an honor to serve the Black business community of our city. While the challenges they have faced have been arduous, we have discovered that the opportunities are and can continue to be abundant,” outgoing Executive Director Joanne Davis said. “Under Dr. Carlos’ leadership, I’m assured that the Chamber’s commitment will remain steadfast for the benefit and growth of Black businesses and Oklahoma City as a whole.”

The Chamber’s Board of Directors invites members, partners, and the public to join us in congratulating Joanne Davis on her service and welcoming Dr. Carlos Robinson at a Meet & Greet Reception on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at Metro Tech Springlake Campus, South Lobby of the District Center. The entire community is invited to come connect, share your ideas, and be part of shaping the future of Black business in Oklahoma City.

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About the Oklahoma City Black Chamber of Commerce

Established in 1989, the Oklahoma City Black Chamber of Commerce works to empower Black and minority-owned businesses and economic interests across central Oklahoma by sharing resources, building relationships, and advocating for equal opportunity and equitable outcomes. To learn more, visit okcblackchamber.org.

Attachments to this release include a photo of Dr. Carlos Robinson, photographed by So Focus Photos by R.Tolar.