Odom new CEO at Chattanooga's EMJ Corp.

Jolley to remain at chairman in executive transition

Chattanooga-based builder EMJ Corp., on track to become a $1 billion a year company for the first time this year, is seeing a shift in its top leadership.

Jay Jolley, chief executive and chairman since 2010, will give up the CEO's job to focus on the strategic direction of the commercial construction company that works coast to coast.

Burt Odom, who became president in 2010, will take on the chief executive's role and oversee day-to-day operations of the business that has about 600 employees, including 327 in Chattanooga.

While Odom lives in Dallas, he said he'll continue to travel to Chattanooga on a regular basis.

The company's corporate headquarters will remain at its Hamilton Place location, Odom said.

"Jay's creative energy, strong work ethic and hands-on approach have left an indelible mark on EMJ," said Odom. "He boldly led EMJ during a time of diversification and growth. I am excited to work with him as he continues to help guide and inspire the company for many years to come."

Jolley, 56, whose father Edgar M. Jolley founded the construction company in 1968, said the move is about transition at EMJ as he mulls retirement, having joined the business in 1983 as a project manager.

The company has offices in Chattanooga, Boston, Dallas and Tulsa and serves a variety of sectors, including retail, industrial and health care.

See more in Tuesday's Times Free Press.

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