Get to Know Roger Dodd

Congratulations to Roger Dodd on his recent promotion to Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). A long-time leader at ESG Operations, Roger held leadership roles in human resources and insurance risk management and ultimately served as CAO there. “Those were exciting times,” says Roger of his ESG days. “We doubled in size while I was there – and I had the opportunity to implement a new HRIS system, we made multiple changes to our benefits, and of course, we became part of Inframark.” Most recently, he served as Vice President, Corporate Insurance. Roger will lead the company’s human resources, compliance, safety, procurement, and administration functions in his new position.

When you are not working, what do you like to do?

If I’m not working, first and foremost, I’d like to be traveling. When I was just out of college, I really got the travel bug and enjoyed living abroad for several years. I first lived in Costa Rica for a year, then came home for a while before I moved to Japan, where I taught English for three years.

Any other travel destinations that you’d like to explore?

I’d love to spend some time traveling through Europe. I’ve not been there yet, so that’s on my list. Having read a lot of Hemingway and Michener, I’d really like to visit Pamplona, Spain. Although I think my “running with the bulls days” are probably behind me, I’d still love to go and watch.

What’s a great travel story or living abroad experience?

Definitely meeting my wife during my time in Japan. While I was there, I taught junior high school during the day and adult English classes at night. My wife was a pharmacist working for a chemical trading company, and she needed to learn English to work on their trading desk. So, she was a student of mine – in the adult classes! – for two years. I’m happy to say it was 25 years ago, and we’re still together.

A favorite pastime?

Day to day, I enjoy spending my free time at home relaxing and banging on my guitar. I play both acoustic and electric – neither one very well.

Favorite guitar players?

Oh, that’s a tough one. I like a range of players, but I’d say one of my favorites is Paul Simon- and on the other end of the spectrum would have to be Stevie Ray Vaughn.

Favorite sports team?

Go Dawgs! As a UGA graduate, it’s got to be the Georgia Bulldogs. I suffered through pretty tough years with their football program, so I am enjoying their recent success.

Favorite meal and/or your best dish?

My wife is a great cook, and we eat many Japanese dishes. But she wouldn’t be surprised to hear me say that. Honestly, pizza is my real favorite. And as far as what I cook … I have a Big Green Egg and like to grill and smoke.