OMAHA, Neb. -- The Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce announces the appointment of Heath Mello to the role of CEO/President.

Mello will assume responsibility for the organization effective Aug. 2, 2023.

Mello brings experience in public policy, fundraising, and community leadership to the Chamber, previously serving as vice president of external relations and director of state relations with the University of Nebraska system.

Mello served as a Nebraska state senator for eight years and was chairman of the Legislature’s Appropriations Committee for four years.

While in the Legislature, Mello also served on the Nebraska Retirement Systems Committee.

Mello has also served on various state and regional Boards and Councils, including as Chair of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry Education Policy Council; and service on the Nebraska Chamber’s Board of Directors.

He also was a member of the Nebraska Advisory Committee for the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, and as a Commissioner on the Nebraska Educational Telecommunication Commission.

Mello, a Nebraska native, graduated from Gretna High School and received his Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

“We believe Mello will continue to grow the business landscape in Omaha and drive strong workforce and economic development in Omaha and Eastern Nebraska,” said Carmen Tapio, who currently serves as chair of the Greater Omaha Chamber.

Tapio served on the search committee, along with Tim Burke, interim President and CEO of the Greater Omaha Chamber, and Derek Leathers, Chairman and CEO of Werner Enterprises.

“Heath Mello has been a great friend and strategic partner during his time at the University of Nebraska, and he’s proven his commitment to our state and communities throughout his career. I know he will bring these same leadership qualities to the Greater Omaha Chamber,” said Ted Carter, president of the University of Nebraska.

Mello replaces the Chamber’s Interim CEO/President, Tim Burke.