Growing up in Longwood, Rob Rohrlack was recruited to the Tampa Bay Chamber a year after graduate school, when he was working as an economic developer in Melbourne. He has lived in Tampa Bay for 24 years and worked for the chamber during three different periods—twice in the economic development department before returning in 2009 as president and CEO.
My dad was a disabled, retired police officer from Washington, D.C. He became disabled when I was young, which is when our family moved to Florida. He later started a successful freshwater fishing guide business in Central Florida. My mom was a stay-at-home mom for a while, then worked in the business office for the local phone company.
After watching an Apollo rocket take off, I wanted to be the first man to walk on the rings of Saturn. I was crushed when I learned the rings were not solid.
Having an “old school” cop as a dad meant it was very much an “if you want it, earn it” environment. That mindset has been the best experience for my line of work. We do not take any member for granted—we must earn their membership every year.
The first job I got on my own was working at an ice cream store. I learned customer service and learned that I cannot eat all the ice cream I want.
I have a lot of admiration for successful business leaders who always remember to give back and help others succeed. That is true business success—not just the balance sheet. We are only going to succeed as a region if we are constantly helping others succeed.
My business philosophy with Chamber members is to learn what motivates them and plug them in where it makes sense within the Chamber. With the team I work with, I focus on helping them shine and supporting their success. I work with an impressive group of members and staff.
My biggest supporters include my wife and our three sons, whom I am incredibly proud of, along with their families. I also deeply admire my older brother, one of the coolest people I know.
I never thought I could run a marathon, but I have completed 10. I also never thought I would earn my doctorate, which I did in 2019.
Any time with my family is cherished. I enjoy hiking in the mountains, and I also really enjoy scuba diving, so travel is involved.
My favorite places to travel include the Mid-Atlantic mountain region and new places with completely different cultures to experience.
I have been able to travel to some unique places through my job. The Bridge of No Return in the DMZ in Korea and 10 Downing Street in London were great experiences.
Tampa Bay is the real Florida. Unlike most other places, this region has it all—outdoor activities, indoor activities, entertainment of every kind, and a great selection of local restaurants. I can go full “Chamber mode” here.
The biggest items on my bucket list include exploring more history in Israel, where the Bible comes alive; seeing the pyramids; and scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef.
A song I love is “When I Fall in Love,” because my wife and I danced to it at our wedding, and “Love Shack,” because it is weird enough to be fun to dance to—though I cannot dance well.
If I could wake up tomorrow with a new skill, it would be the ability to sing well and play a musical instrument. I am truly a “make a joyful noise to the Lord” kind of singer.
My biggest pet peeve is when I—or someone else—is holding a grudge. Mistakes happen. Apologize and move on.
My perfect day would be a sunny one, with temperatures starting in the 40s and warming into the mid-60s, spent outdoors with the whole family.
This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.
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