Memphis People in Business: Acclaim, Achievement, and New Appointments

In a fresh series of developments across the various industries that make up the vibrant business scene of Memphis, numerous professionals have been singled out for commendation, contribution, and promotion. Here, we chart the course of the movers, shakers, and newsmakers that define commercial progression in the city.

The First Vice President Neurosurgeon

Dr. Kenan Arnautovic, a neurosurgeon at the Semmes Murphey Clinic, has claimed an eminent role as the First Vice President of the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies. Appointed by a collective of 129 neurosurgical societies worldwide, Arnautovic will serve as a voting officer for improving neurosurgical care, training, and research. Dr. Arnautovic joined Semmes Murphey Clinic in 2003, specializing in brain tumor treatments and complex spine diagnoses.

Ace Science Educator Honored

Marie van der Merwe, an associate professor at the University of Memphis’ College of Health Sciences, recently received the prestigious 2023 Higher Education Science Educator of the Year Award from the Tennessee Science Teachers Association. The award acknowledges her significant contributions to science education which impact the community positively.

New Faces at the Society of Entrepreneurs

The local entrepreneurial scene has welcomed fresh members this year, courtesy of the Society of Entrepreneurs. The Society conducted its New Member Reception and welcomed Chris Brubaker, Brett Grinder, Fred Grinder, Justin Grinder, and Stacy McCall. Meanwhile, Bob McEniry, retired Chairman of nexAir, was named the 2024 recipient of the Master Entrepreneur Award.

Iris Restaurant Group Expands Ownership

In the food and beverages industry, Iris Restaurant Group is expanding ownership by adding father-daughter duo Tim Romanow and Kimberly Guthrie of Romanow Guthrie Investments.

Community Development Council Appointment

The Community Development Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis has a new member in the face of Keith Turbett, the community development manager of First Horizon Bank, Memphis.

Architecture Firm Board Election

Michel Lebel, senior principal and lead architect at Allen & Hoshall, has been elected as a member of the company’s board of directors.

Baptist Heart Institute Addition

Dr. Padmaraj Duvvuri, a skilled cardiologist, has been added to the Advanced Heart Failure Program at the Baptist Heart Institute at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis.

Rhodes College Joins American Talent Initiative

Rhodes College has joined the American Talent Initiative, a network of leading colleges and universities nationwide which aim to expand access and opportunity for talented low- and moderate-income students.

Suffice to say, Memphis has seen a remarkable dynamism in its business landscape, with notable contributions and advancements reflected across diverse domains. Memphis, as always, remains a vibrant, burgeoning city of opportunity and innovation.