Read Q&As from SC Biz News’ inaugural New Executives Power List honorees

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SC Biz News’ inaugural New Executives Power List recognizes executives newly hired or promoted at businesses and organizations across South Carolina.

Know an executive who would be a good fit for our Power List feature? Email executive editor Jason Thomas at [email protected].

Related: Check out Q&As with SC Biz News’ 2024 Manufacturing Power List honorees

Related: Meet the 2024 SC Biz News Logistics Industry Power List honorees

Austin Walker

Economic Development Director

Abbeville County

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

I’m no stranger to the small business and commercial development within the City of Abbeville, but I’m really looking forward to expanding my horizons into industrial development and getting to work on projects that benefit the whole county.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?

In rural communities, turning the tide on population decline is the driving factor for how we approach community and economic development.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

My first job was in Student Development at Erskine College while attending school there.  I mainly worked with career and leadership development programs which uncovered my passion to develop the natural strengths and unique giftings people have to build cohesive teams.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

No matter the sector, no matter the job: Be flexible.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

This past year I was a surrogate!

Bethany Smith

Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer

Milliken & Company

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

Creating and supporting programs that enable associates to have a rewarding career at Milliken.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?

The talent market is extremely competitive. Hiring and retaining associates is vital to our success.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

I was a Smiling People Greeter aka “SPG” at TFI Fridays. The training program there contained clear requirements to move up in the company. I found out if I followed the program, worked hard and met (exceeded) expectations, I could advance my career. After being promoted to a server position, I learned a great deal about listening to the needs of customers and providing a personalized experience.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

Always extend grace. Not only to others, but to yourself.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

Even though I am a huge fan of music and sports, and have tried many types of both, I have zero talent in either one.

Cassie Thompson

Senior Director of People and Culture

Infinity Marketing

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?The opportunity to continue championing a strengths-based culture both internally as well as with clients and partners. I love finding ways to set people up to succeed and am so thankful to be able to oversee our organization’s people strategy to make that happen!

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now? 

Change management; specifically within the ever evolving world of business change, employee needs, and people best practices; especially as we add Artificial Intelligence to the mix. Keeping up with the change ourselves as well as helping others navigate the ever more rapidly shifting environment is a full-time job most days!

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it? 

My first job was as a librarian assistant. I learned the power of information, how to navigate challenging patron interactions, and the surprising variety of things that could be accidently left inside a book or book on tape!

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

If you aren’t uncomfortable, you aren’t growing. Seek the discomfort and stretch! And the advice I most often give is “Find the Laughter.” Laughter makes everything easier, more enjoyable, and infinitely more worth doing.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

I love knitting and am a member of the South Carolina Knitting Guild. Nothing gets me more excited than our annual “Knit Inn” conference where I get to participate in many knitting technique and philosophy sessions.

Chip Bruorton     

Co-Managing Member

Rosen Hagood, LLC

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?

Retention and recruitment.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

I was a dishwasher at Holly Tree Country Club in Simpsonville. About two months in, the head cook had an accident and was no longer able to work. I got thrust into the position of head cook and did it for four years. I learned you never know what to expect, but whatever comes your way be able to handle it head on without backing away.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

In my legal career, it came from my senior partner very early on when he told me that when he was an associate and given a case he always tried to know more about the case than the attorney who delegated it to him.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

I married my high school sweetheart.

Dan Crist

President

A M King

What are you most looking forward to in your new position? 

I’m certainly excited to focus on the continued growth of A M King. I’ll enjoy playing an instrumental role in developing the next generation of leaders at our company, while maintaining a culture that sets us apart from other Design-Build firms.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now? 

The labor shortage continues to put a strain on most construction trades. We’re not immune to it either, as finding qualified candidates to manage our projects is a challenge.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it? 

My first job was working for a site contractor as a laborer during the summer in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The long hot days in the field helped me to later appreciate the dedicated, skilled trades who help us build quality facilities.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

Character is doing the right thing when no one is looking.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you? 

I grew up in a farming community in Indiana and our family still owns a third-generation farm. Visiting the farm brings me back to my childhood and provides calming relief from the chaos.

David Feild

Colliers International South Carolina

President

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

I love the expanded geography associated with the role of president of South Carolina. I now have the opportunity to strengthen and grow my relationships with the talent at Colliers statewide. In a client service business such as ours, the skilled professionals within our organization drive success. I look forward to working with all of them more closely.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?

Economic uncertainty and changing market dynamics have always given commercial real estate investors pause. Nationally and globally, we face inflation, interest rate uncertainty, work-from-home dynamics, and many other challenges. Despite these headwinds, I am very excited about South Carolina’s future in commercial real estate.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

When I was 12, I rode my bike to my family’s veterinary clinic to help clean the dog kennels. The vet didn’t hire me but “allowed” me to be there every day from 7:00 a.m. to lunch. At the end of the summer, I remember receiving what I thought was an incredible amount of money (three figures!) and praise for being self-motivated and working hard the whole time. I incorporate those characteristics into everything I do.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

Communication is just as much about listening as it is speaking. Be a learner, not a knower.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

My favorite way to wind down at the end of the day has become watering my plants and shrubs. Turning my mind off work is challenging, and the simplicity of giving my plants a drink is surprisingly therapeutic.

Eric Monteiro

Corporate director of marketing and digital strategy

OTO Development

 What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

I’m excited about collaborating with my new team to elevate innovation and creativity. I’m eager to support the people in our hotels and restaurants who are dedicated to creating memorable experiences for our guests. Blending fresh ideas into established brands, I look forward to making a real impact and achieving tangible results.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?

The hotel industry is facing a constantly changing consumer maze. Just as we get past the initial rush of post-COVID freedom and things seem to settle into a new normal, confusion about the economy lingers. It’s great to see business travelers hitting the road again, and we can’t lose sight of our sense of adventure — we want to keep the travel spark alive for the leisure market, too.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

My first job as a high schooler was at a day camp for kids called the Stac House. Imagine endless games of basketball, epic ping-pong battles, and occasional shifts manning the snack bar. I was getting paid to have fun – wild, right? Little did I know, I was also weaving unforgettable memories for others, all while learning how to craft experiences, which undeniably set the groundwork for my love of marketing in the hotel and hospitality industry.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

No idea is a bad idea. Well, sometimes they miss the mark. But the ‘misses’ can lead to unexpected brilliance. Speak up, and let your thoughts roam free. Have the confidence to put your ideas out there, and the humility to admit when you are wrong. Because within every misstep lies the potential for greatness.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

I’m a certified diamontologist. It’s a skill that hasn’t exactly taken center stage in my career, but it comes in handy when friends need advice on a special gift.

Fredalyn M. Frasier

Planning Director

City of Spartanburg

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

I am excited to contribute to the collaborative spirit that initially drew me to Spartanburg.

The City of Spartanburg is currently experiencing an unprecedented level of investment, which presents an exciting opportunity to align the development with the community’s priorities expressed in the recently adopted comprehensive plan. I look forward to actively listening to the community and working with the city team to bring innovative planning concepts to the table.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?
The practice of city planning is ever evolving. As a profession, we’ve seen the gaps in the essential foundational elements of community come to light during and following the pandemic which underscored the importance of resiliency.

Resiliency has always been a critical lens to the work we do, whether it is promoting local economic opportunities, creative housing options, community health and wellness, and equity to name a few areas. The list is extensive, and the work needed is complex and requires comprehensive solutions. The challenge is to deliver flexible tools and practices in a timely manner that supports our respective communities.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?
My first job was as an undergraduate. I worked as a planning intern for the City of Charleston, SC. I learned that showing up and being authentically engaged opens doors to other opportunities.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?
Take the initiative to broaden your perspective and experiences in every aspect of your life. You never know what valuable insights you’ll gain. Growing up, this was an unspoken expectation since we traveled and lived in different states and countries as a military family.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you? I’m an outdoorsy person, and I especially enjoy beach camping. My favorite site is Edisto Island, SC. My husband and I have been camping at Edisto for over a decade.

D. Garet Strange

Chief Operating Officer

Hobbs Group Advisors

 What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

I am looking forward to the opportunity to contribute at a strategic level and shape the direction of our firm’s future growth. It’s a chance to leverage my experience and expertise to make a tangible impact on our firm’s success, as well as to mentor and develop the next generation of financial planners.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?

I think the biggest challenge facing our industry right now is the rise of artificial intelligence and how to effectively use it to enhance the value we provide to our clients.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

Fresh out of college, I accepted a job as a financial analyst for a large corporation. I worked there for three months and did nothing but sit in my cubicle and fold letters. I learned that I didn’t want to work for a large corporation, but a smaller, up and coming organization where I could work more directly with clients and have a chance to see the fruits of my labor and contribute to the growth of the firm.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

I have heard a lot of good advice over the years. It is hard for me to narrow it down to just one. “Work smarter, not harder”, “Never stop learning”, “Under promise, over deliver,” and “Don’t let the expectation become greater than the appreciation.” come to mind.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

In college, I worked as a student assistant coach for the Clemson football team.

Greg Hudson

Project Manager 

RMF Engineering

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?
I’m looking forward to the opportunity to continue helping RMF grow. We’ve seen a lot of success in the last few years, but we have great potential, as well. Internally, we’ve welcomed a number of talented, young staff members that I’m excited to work alongside as they grow and develop. I’m also excited about the work that our organization is doing in decarbonization, including the electrification of buildings and energy efficient building designs. These are important opportunities for us to be champions within our industry, and we’ve worked hard to become leaders in those areas. On a more personal level, I’m excited about RMF’s continued growth within the healthcare field. Health care engineering is my passion, and I’m looking forward to our future in that market and the technical expertise we can bring.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now? The ripple effects of COVID-related price increases and supply chain challenges are still very prevalent in our work today. We’ve seen budget set-asides that aren’t sufficient for the proposed project scope due to price increases on equipment and other materials. The lead times for certain equipment is still adversely impacting project schedules. This means we must be even more diligent in working with clients and owners to adapt their projects’ needs and goals into what their budget and schedule can actually accommodate.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it? My first job out of college actually was at RMF Engineering. I’ve been with the team since I graduated, and I’ve learned a lot over the years. One of the lessons that stands out, and one that I appreciate the most, is how to build strong client relationships. Providing the “Best Effort for Clients” is one of RMF’s core values and continuing to better understand my role in that has been an immensely important lesson. It’s one I don’t think you ever stop learning, because it applies in all situations.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard? I had a professor who talked about what it takes to “be successful.” He believed there were three key measures of success: 1) Making the amount of money you need to live whatever life you want. He relayed a story about his son, who worked for the National Park Service and lived in a tent for most of the year and ate off a camp stove. Certainly not a life some people would want, but he was happy and could afford what he needed and wanted, so in his mind that was success.

2) Enjoying whatever you choose to do. The expectation isn’t that every day is great and bad days don’t happen, but that whatever a person’s chosen career may be, it should be something that they enjoy. 3) Lastly, but most importantly, benefiting humanity. I’ve always thought that leaving the world a better place is important to keep in mind as we look at our careers. That’s a piece of advice that has always stuck with me, and I think it’s a simple way to look at success.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you? The idea that I’ve only really worked at one place my entire career may be surprising to people. The statistic that I remember from college was that our generation would work for between 8 and 12 different companies during our careers, and I’ve certainly seen that play out with some of my classmates. Both my grandfather and my dad only worked for one place their entire careers, so it felt like the norm to me, and I’ve had the unique pleasure of working for a place that I haven’t wanted to leave. In that sense, I don’t mind being the exception, rather than the rule.

Jeff Wilson

President of Trident Health and Chief Executive Officer of Trident Medical Center

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?  It’s always exciting to come into an organization that has a lot of incredible history in the community that it’s been serving. I’m excited about embracing the role of being the President of Trident Health and the CEO of Trident Medical Center to devise new strategies to take care of patients in South Carolina’s Lowcountry. Trident Medical Center has been doing that for almost 50 years. In fact, we celebrate our 50^th anniversary next year. Trident Health now includes two acute care hospitals, Trident Medical Center and Summerville Medical Center; a 60-bed mental health hospital, Live Oak Mental Health & Wellness; and four freestanding ERs – Brighton Park Emergency, Centre Pointe Emergency, James Island Emergency and Moncks Corner Medical Center. And, in the last several months we’ve announced our plans to build two new freestanding ERs and a hospital on Johns Island, SC. Our goal is to continue expanding access to care to medically underserved communities. It’s exciting to be at the helm of the organization as we prepare for the next half century of work and caring for patients in the Lowcountry.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?  Healthcare has in its past and will continue to be a high touch service-oriented industry. That requires a lot of individuals to provide that service. We have colleagues across the entire spectrum of education, background and training who are essential to delivering healthcare services to our patients. And, for the healthcare industry the current staffing needs to ensure that we take exceptional care of our patients and the pipeline for the future is the most pressing issue facing healthcare now. The organizations that are able to secure that pipeline are the ones that will be successful. So, one of the things that helps Trident Health, as a member of HCA Healthcare, is the investments that we are making in nursing education, graduate medical education, the partnerships we have with programs that develop specialists like radiology techs, respiratory therapists, and physical therapists – all of those individuals are essential to ensuring our ability to continue taking exceptional care of our patients.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?  I grew up on a farm in the Flint Hills of Kansas, so jobs started early. I had a variety of responsibilities as a young child to care for animals that were essential to our life and lifestyle as a source of income. I remember being responsible for feeding cattle. My job was driving the truck while my dad threw bales of hay out of the back. I think I was in the first grade when I started. I was only driving in the pasture, not on the roads. I learned the importance of my role in providing for our family. So, it translates into, “What is my role providing for our organization and for our patients?”  Everybody in our organization is important to the success of our mission. It’s true of me as president and chief executive officer, but that’s true of our front line colleagues who are caring for patients every day.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?  There are two pieces of advice that have been especially helpful. One is, “Remember, there are two sides to every story.”  I think it’s important for a leader because we are always receiving a lot of information and perspectives and opinions about what should be done or opportunities and challenges.  I found it was important to receive the information, to affirm it, and then to gain other perspectives or to validate that the information is correct. I think it allows me to make a better decision for the benefit of the patient, the organization, or the benefit of relationship development which is so important in health care.

The second piece of advice that continues to be helpful is, “The closer you are to the patient, the better decision you’re going to make on behalf of that patient.” I need to facilitate an environment where our nurses, techs, our providers who are at the bedside caring for the hundreds of patients we connect with every single day are empowered to make great decisions on behalf of patients because they truly know what’s going to be the most impactful thing for the patient because they are closest to the patient at that time.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

I grew up on a farm in East Central Kansas.  We grew wheat, corn, soybeans, alfalfa, and other plants. We also raised cattle and I raised show hogs. I was in 4-H for 11 years. I’m an extrovert and my cup is filled when I’m engaging with people – that’s hard to do when you work on a farm, so I wanted to do something else. I went to the University of Kansas for my undergraduate degree. I’m an avid musician.  My voice is my instrument, and I had a voice scholarship.  I also studied international relations, communications studies, and French. I wanted to work in the foreign service. While earning my undergraduate degree, I studied in Paris at the Language Institute at the Sorbonne.  After graduation, I went to Washington, D.C. and worked with the State Department. That work led me to Richmond, Virginia, where I worked with the governor doing policy work.  It was there that I started focusing on issues like health policy, mental health, and Medicaid. Then, about 20 years ago, I made the transition to acute health care and have been working in hospitals ever since.

Jim Bush

Principal, CEO

Winkler Group

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?
We are a professional services firm that fuels philanthropy through strategy and experienced counsel.  Without question, I am most excited about expanding our services to best meet the changing landscape of the nonprofit sector.  While we used to focus solely on capital campaigns, our clients began asking for additional strategic counsel. To meet this market demand, we launched four new services this year, and have plans to roll out three more new service lines by year-end.

This has required a large investment in all areas of our firm, and we are beginning to see a return on this investment.  Over the past four years, we have doubled our revenue while raising more than $1 billion for our clients.  Most importantly though, we have helped our client partners strengthen their relationships with donors.

I am also very much looking forward to creating new opportunities for our team members. I mean it when I say that we want every team member to stay at the Winkler Group until they retire. To meet the evolving needs of our clients, we must invest in our team members.  I started at this firm 13 years ago as a consultant and want to give my colleagues the same growth opportunities that I have been given.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?
We are in a generosity crisis. The nonprofit sector is staring down the hard truth of declining rates of giving. The number of Americans making charitable gifts has reached an all-time low, and statistics show that the percentage of people giving to charity annually could dip into the single digits within our next generation. The good news is that we understand the crisis. The challenge is that it is difficult to change practices by nonprofits that have become cemented over the past 50 years.

In taking the helm of Winkler Group as its CEO, my focus will be to lead our team in developing and implementing new leading practices to better steward donors and show them the return on investment of their charitable giving. Though the idea of less than half of American households giving to organizations seems bleak, the fact that charitable giving reached a record-breaking $471 billion in 2020 is encouraging and highlights that the drive to give is there. We must help the organizations become better partners to donors.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?
My first job was renting bikes on the boardwalk in Virginia Beach so that I could buy myself my first car. I was paid a tiny hourly rate, along with a commission for each bike rental I made.  There must have been three or four other bike rental stands within a block of mine – there was a lot of competition! When I got my first tiny paycheck, I was so disappointed. It was going to take me forever to buy a car. That was the moment I decided to take my mom’s advice to tap into my ‘unique zone of genius.’  I was good at connecting with people, so I became much more focused on getting the attention of potential customers and then striving to give them exceptional service.

It worked!  I became the top bike rental agent on the boardwalk. And I learned a few key lessons that I carry with me today: know your ‘unique zone of genius’; make the experience about someone else, not you – that leaves an impression; and, always deliver on what you promise.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?
Only do what only you can do and delegate the rest. When you manage people, it is easy to fall into the trap of owning someone else’s problems. I was good at putting aside my work to help others.  The result: they got promoted and I didn’t. Thankfully, several years into my career I had a manager who became my mentor.  She observed how I managed other team members’ problems and gave me this advice.  It was a kick in the butt I needed to start paying careful attention to my own work and become responsible for myself and empower the people around me to become critical thinkers and problem solvers.  This takes practice, especially when you’re someone who has the instinct to nurture others!

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?
In 2000, the pro beach volleyball tournament came to Charleston. I played competitive beach volleyball back then and since it was an open tournament, my partner and I entered it.  We won every match in our round-robin bracket, and then went on to win our division. This qualified us to make it into the tournament…where we were quickly beaten in the first round.  So, I was a professional beach volleyball player…if only for a few hours.

Joey Current

Director of strategic partnerships

Trident United Way

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

As we approach our 80th year serving the Tri-County, Trident United Way is embarking on an exciting journey to re-evaluate how we live out our mission to be a catalyst for community transformation. By embracing the ALICE® framework, we now have extensive data that better positions us to build key initiatives that will improve livability in our region. Building key strategic partnerships is going to be an important part of this process and I cannot wait to embed myself as a connector and convenor in my community.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?

Philanthropic organizations across the country are continually challenged to listen, learn, and evolve to find the most efficient, impactful ways to support their communities. Critical issues here in the Tri-County- and nationwide- include affordable housing, reliable transportation and access to quality healthcare and childcare. These are not simple challenges, and certainly not something nonprofits can tackle alone. By partnering with our community members, business leaders and elected officials we can work together to create sustainable, impactful change.

 What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

My first job was at a flood and fire remediation company. It was long hours in wet and dirty conditions, and I often met folks on the worst day of their lives after losing everything. I learned to give people grace when facing unexpected and sometimes unavoidable life circumstances. You never know what someone is going through behind the scenes, but you can always treat people with dignity and respect.

 What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why. Never lose sight of your purpose and live every day to answer that calling.

 What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

Shortly after I was born, I was abandoned by my biological mother and father. I was then moved around between elderly family members until it was decided that my best chance for a bright future was to be adopted. I am extremely lucky to have been adopted by two amazing parents who gave me all their love and support and raised me to use my gifts to give back to my community so other families can have the support systems in place that my early childhood lacked.

Joseph Dickey

Attorney

Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd

What are you most looking forward to in your new position? 

I am looking forward to working with a highly talented team of professionals across South Carolina and North Carolina to provide value driven legal solutions to our clients.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?

Changing culture and cost efficiency. The increased utility of A.I. in the legal field further highlights the challenges facing law firms in providing alternative fee arrangements. In addition, the post-COVID remote work culture and changing demographics (age and otherwise) in law firms mark a slight culture change from the traditional long hours working in the office. Firms must be mindful of the changes in the field and adapt accordingly to continue moving forward which HSB is doing.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

My first job was starring on an educational TV show. While simple, I learned at a young age the value of being paid for your work and also that sometimes you cannot participate in all activities at work which is OK.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard? 

Always keep your head about you even while everyone else around you is losing theirs. From my Dad.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

I am conversant in Japanese and still know how to play the piano.

Julie A. Davis

Executive Director

Beaufort Housing Authority

What are you most looking forward to in your new position? Joining the Beaufort Housing Authority is a profound opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of many families. I am eager to contribute to our mission and excited to engage with and learn from our partners as we work together to create communities that make Beaufort proud.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now? A shortage of affordable housing supply.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it? Law firm runner. Professionalism, work effectively with diverse groups, and to parallel park!

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard? Never stop learning. Education and experience can never be taken away from you.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you? I was initially an art major in college and have a witty sense of humor.

Katie Collins

President and CEO

Greer Chamber of Commerce

 What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

I am extremely excited to reconnect with the Greater Greer community and lead the organization during a time of incredible growth for the city.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?

Competition. There are more options than ever when choosing where to invest resources, time, and energy. Chambers must continuously prove their relevance/value and evolve to meet their member and community needs.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

My first job was as a hostess at a steakhouse. It taught me the importance of having patience and providing a positive customer experience!

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

You can learn something from every person you meet. Never stop being curious.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

I love to travel. In another life with better eyesight, I think I would’ve been a pilot.

Lane Cook

Partner         

LawyerLisa

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

My new position will afford me a greater opportunity to provide training, guidance, and mentoring to our attorneys, which I find very exciting.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?

As the demand for estate planning and elder law services continues to grow, it is critical that we continue to attract the best people to meet the need. This means constantly being on the lookout for opportunities to grow our team.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

My first job out of law school was as an administrative hearing officer with the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce.  When an employer or former employee disagreed with an unemployment claim determination, they could file an appeal of that determination and they would come in front of me for a hearing. I learned how important it is to keep asking questions until you’ve truly gotten to the bottom of an issue.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

When in doubt say yes, especially early in your career. There are opportunities you can pursue and risks you can take earlier in your professional life that tend to become more and more difficult as you get older and more established.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?
I used to be in a brass quintet that played covers of pop and rock music.  One time we opened for a harp duo that plays Metallica covers. I’m also a really good whistler.

Laurence Fritz

WebsterRogers LLP

Partner

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?
I’m excited to join the WebsterRogers team and work with a talented group of professionals across our service lines. We have a great existing client base, and with the growth occurring in South Carolina, I believe there is a tremendous opportunity to provide accounting and business-related support to companies throughout the state.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?
Navigating the constantly shifting landscape of accounting and business can be a challenge. There’s been a notable decline in students pursuing accounting majors, and reports indicate that more than 300,000 individuals have exited the profession in recent years. This, coupled with personnel limitations and the fast-paced advancements in technology and AI, has led to operational hurdles that CPA firms are currently facing.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?
When I was 15, I landed my first job at Young Office Supply in Spartanburg. I continued to work there during the summers throughout high school and college. In my first role, I arrived at the warehouse at 5am to help load trucks for daily delivery. There were numerous life lessons over the years and in the many stages of my personal development. One lesson that sticks with me the most is the importance of all team members. Tommy Young, who had a significant impact on my life both personally and professionally, stressed how the work we performed and the way we carried ourselves in the community was a reflection of the company as a whole and emphasized the need to make sure we all contributed as best we could for the company to succeed.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?
From a personal and professional perspective, I have received advice that covers many different spectrums. One concept that resonates with me is the ability to adapt, change, and grow. Shortly after graduating from college, I landed my first job. I can recall like it was yesterday, my boss shared with me the notion that everyone is replaceable. Hearing this was startling and even intimidating in my first post-grad professional position. I’ve reflected on this many times over the years and have come to view this comment as a gift – it served as a guiding star, reminding me not to become complacent in my performance.  In a rapidly changing business environment, it’s vital to push yourself to achieve success and adapt as business needs and requirements evolve.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?
I did not start my career in the CPA field. I was a finance major at the University of South Carolina and initially worked with an international commodity trading firm out of college. The global aspect of that job, along with spending two years working in Dublin, Ireland, has allowed me to establish lasting relationships throughout the international community.

Paddy O’Brien

CEO

Zeus

 What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

It’s hard to know where to begin! There are many things I’m excited about and looking forward to. I’m thrilled to join the exceptional team here. I see an opportunity to build on an already terrific culture and take it to the next level. There’s a long legacy of excellence and a great foundation to build on. Going forward, we plan on enhancing specific areas, such as operational efficiency and focused innovation. And, of course, partnering closely with our customers and exceeding their expectations as we advance patient care together. All these things have made me very optimistic about leading Zeus into its next phase of evolution.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?

I try to be very deliberate about viewing “challenges” as “opportunities,” and a few come to mind immediately. One, the global supply chain vulnerabilities highlighted during and post-COVID forced the entire industry to focus on developing resilient and agile supply chains to mitigate risks moving forward. Two, everyone in this industry is still contending with inflationary pressures impacting the cost of doing business, such as raw materials and labor expenses. Finally, technology continues to change rapidly, and integrating it responsibly requires significant planning and discipline to balance the risks and benefits.

These are all tremendous opportunities that allow us to collaborate closely with our customers, find new and more cost-effective and efficient ways of working together, and be thoughtful about how we can further support their business.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

I worked as a line operator at a friction material company in my first job. I was responsible for tasks at different workstations, such as sandblasting and de-greasing components of varying shapes and sizes that would ultimately be used in braking systems for a wide variety of motorized vehicles.

Working side-by-side with long-tenured, experienced operators, I learned the value of hard work, reliability, and taking pride in a job well done. I earned many insights and skill sets, such as respect for processes, attention to detail, time management, adaptability, and problem-solving in real time. These lessons have proven to be valuable in various employment experiences, not only during my school years but also in my professional career.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

The best advice came from my father as I was heading to college. Unclear and indecisive, I didn’t know what I wanted to do when I “grew up.” My father told me to treat everything as a learning experience. He imparted, “Work as hard as possible, continue learning from as many people as you can, and gain perspective from your experiences.” Ultimately, he said, I needed to put myself in a position to make the next choice, whatever that may be, and to embrace the opportunities in front of me. I needed to excel at whatever I did so I could be prepared to take on the next challenge. Finally, make sure I have a plan — and be prepared to adjust it along the way.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

For a few years, I was convinced I’d become an orthodontist. I took the Dental Admission Test (DAT) and was all set to go to dental school after finishing college. Well, that is, until I spent a summer shadowing one of my uncles, our family dentist. For various reasons, I decided becoming an orthodontist wasn’t the path I wanted to take!

Peggy Chamblee

Vice president, Retail Banking Manager

Countybank

What are you most looking forward to in your new position? The opportunity to support our retail associates and to make a meaningful impact. I’m also looking forward to collaborating with our talented team across all lines of business within Countybank.
What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now? One of the biggest challenges right now is adapting to changing customer expectations and preferences, particularly in the digital realm, while keeping robust security measures in place, and keeping the personal touch. Relationships are important. Balancing innovation with security is key.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it? My first job was working in the office for a local CPA during tax season. I learned a lot about customer service and teamwork, and how to flow from one task to another in a busy environment.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard? “Change your thinking, change your life.” Something we always have control over is our perspective.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you? I enjoy working crossword and jigsaw puzzles. My favorite puzzle to solve is a cryptogram or crypto quote. I love deciphering codes!

Prescott May

Corporate Business Development

Bunnell-Lammons Engineering

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

The people, both internally and externally!  This is an exciting opportunity for me to grow as Bunnell-Lammons Engineering, Inc. (BLE) continues to grow.  We just celebrated hitting 200 employees across three branches. With this new position, I have the opportunity to work with so many new (to me) industries, markets, and clients. Meeting new people, learning their businesses and the unique challenges they each face is what gets me out of bed excited to tackle each new day!

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?

Staffing is now a universal challenge that BLE is facing like so many others. The 2008 recession and the subsequent years have left a gap in the AEC market when many people were forced to leave the industry and some of those people, and the institutional knowledge they carried, did not return to the industry.  I come across many partners, clients, and even competitors who are constantly looking for new ways to recruit talented staff.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

I had the pleasure of working in the golf cart barn of my local course during high school. There were so many good lessons that came out of that experience, but one that stands out is consistency. It can be so easy to do something once or twice, but success comes from being able to repeat what can sometimes feel mundane at a high level of quality day in day out. That consistency led me from being in the cart barn to working in the Pro Shop. It showed me that hard work pays off!

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

There is no way to keep it just to one, but I hold myself to only two. First is “honesty is the best policy.” Speaking honestly with people can lead to difficult conversations, but having the courage to have those hard conversations allows us to grow personally, as well as foster strong relationships. The second is “maintain a sense of urgency.” Life moves quickly, and to navigate the fast pace it comes at us, having a sense of urgency to complete tasks allows us take advantage of the opportunities that come our way.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

Despite having a fear of heights, I love skydiving and anything that pushes that fear like high ziplines, repelling, and being on top of high buildings! There is nothing like a little fear to make you feel alive!

Sam Konduros

President

Greenville Economic Development Corp.

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

Serving and supporting my favorite city – Greenville, South Carolina – and having the opportunity to contribute to its rapidly rising future. That includes working with and learning from visionary leaders – our mayor, city councilors, the City manager and a world-class board of directors – who boldly set a new course for economic development for our city, created a strategic plan to guide me, and set the stage for this unique leadership role which I feel privileged to fulfill. This opportunity represents a remarkably strong convergence of my passion, my experience (and how God wired me), and a powerful mission.

 What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?

Ensuring that our economic development decisions position everyone in Greenville to thrive. We must be deliberate about designing and executing strategies that improve quality of life for all members of our community, representing all walks of life.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

My first “career” job, after graduating from law school, was serving as a project manager for the International Division of South Carolina’s Department of Commerce (then called The SC State Development Board), hyper-focused on recruiting international companies to our state. I had the opportunity to travel the world, engage with senior executives of foreign-based companies and soak up knowledge from highly experienced corporate decision-makers. From the subtleties of international business protocols and cultural differences, to sophisticated financial analyses, to the art of compromise in crafting a win-win partnership, the lessons were priceless.

 What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

 A few of the simplest and most profound pieces of advice I’ve received, include:

• Be humble and grateful every day and strive to listen more than you speak.
• Seek to be part of something much bigger than yourself.
• Never put money first in an important career decision.
• How you choose to respond to every situation is the one important thing you can control.
• Be thoughtful about who you spend the most time with – because you will become more like them.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

I thrive on relationships, but need a certain amount of “quiet, alone time” to be at my very best with people. In addition to the more extroverted traits that I may be known for and are needed in my profession, I am also partly an introvert. For that reason, riding a motorcycle 8,000 miles across America by myself between two career stints – and anonymously meeting people all along the way – was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life.

Samer Hamde

Healthcare Practice Leader

McMillan Pazdan Smith

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?

Meeting the burgeoning demand for healthcare services; this is a race for the entire healthcare services industry that will continue for many years. As the baby boomer generation ages into retirement and qualifies for Medicare, their population is needing healthcare systems to provide an array of services for them in their region that aren’t currently provided. Additionally, the population expansion of the South, the nation’s most populous region, accounted for 87 percent of the nation’s growth in 2023, as the region added over 1.4M residents for a total population of 130.1M.  Texas, Florida, North Carolina, and Georgia accounted for 93 percent of the nation’s population growth in 2022, and 67 percent in 2023 while South Carolina and Florida were the two fastest-growing states in the nation, growing by 1.7 percent and 1.6 percent, respectively, in 2023 (U.S. Census Bureau).

This is already putting tremendous pressure on healthcare systems to expand their services and is resulting in a race to market. The healthcare systems that will fare the best are the ones that are getting their services to market to meet this demand and capture market share within this period of rapid growth. Our role is to help our healthcare clients be successful by leveraging this challenge as an opportunity to strengthen their organizations in the communities they service.

 What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

I’m always up for a challenge and I’m most excited about helping our clients be successful in this challenging healthcare climate. The demographic growth I just spoke about is requiring our design services industry to innovate beyond our standard design services to support our healthcare clients. We’re doing this with our advisory services and data-backed research, which helps our healthcare system clients effectively plan and prepare for this demand increase. That builds on the strong design acumen the team already has to add more value for our clients. This ultimately strengthens our position in the design services market, too, as we continue to focus on our client needs and project delivery.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

My first job was designing a drug-dependency unit for a major healthcare system that was being transformed from a County Examiner’s office into a methadone dispersing clinic. That project opened my eyes to a fundamental truth of our industry: how important access to needed healthcare services is in the communities we live in. I learned that addictions afflict people from all walks of life and have repercussions through a community when treatment and services aren’t accessible. Ever since, that job has been a continuous reminder for me that the services we deliver have a significant impact on people’s lives. I share this perspective with my team often as it continues to bring me great awareness and motivation, a poignant reminder for us to collectively do the best job we can to help the community we’re serving.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

My mother always said to me growing up, “heaven is not worth visiting if there’s no one there to share it with.” What that saying came to mean for me is that everything we do, we do for and because of people. In a business environment, that translates to our work always being more effective when we’re focused on nurturing relationships and building communities. We can’t do it without other people sharing their talents and helping us along the way and giving back to them in the same way.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

What most people don’t know about me is that I grew up in Lebanon during the Civil War there. The war started when I was four, and my family and I persevered through it until I left when I was 18 to come to the U.S. for college. As a result of that upbringing, I’m extremely adaptable and tend to be unflappable – it takes a lot to surprise me.

Scott Harris

Director of Advertising

Flock and Rally: Integrated Communications

 What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

I thrive when surrounded by energetic and talented individuals, and I’ve found just that at Flock and Rally. I’ve quickly adapted to collaborating with my colleagues as we craft amazing advertising campaigns for our clients. To me, it feels like solving a giant puzzle!

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?

Like any industry, the rise of AI and automation can be daunting. However, embracing this new technology and harnessing its potential to work for you is crucial.  Programmatic AI platforms enable us to efficiently purchase ad campaigns, leveraging extensive data. Yet, when it comes to crafting ad strategies and analyzing reporting metrics, a proper balance of technology and the irreplaceable human touch is essential.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

My first job was operating a Space Moonwalk simulator at the National Science Center’s Fort Discovery in Augusta. This simulator used a hydraulic crane to lift you in a harness to simulate walking on the moon at 1/6th of your Earth weight. It was an enlightening role where I not only learned a great deal about science but also developed patience, especially since most of my customers were elementary school children from across Georgia and South Carolina.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

You should let go of perfection: You can waste time trying to achieve perfection, so don’t let your fear of imperfection stop you from getting things done.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

I’m an impressionist. If we get to know each other well, I might be able to mimic you! I also do impressions of certain celebrities and politicians.

Stephan Leccese

Managing Director of Operations

Lima One Capital

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to join Lima One Capital and lead its lending operations. I’m excited to work alongside a talented team in advancing the company’s pursuit of operational excellence and in nurturing the next generation of leaders in the private lending industry. Additionally, I’m looking forward to building meaningful relationships within the Greenville community, giving back to the place I now call home, and positively impacting those around me.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?

The private lending industry faces some significant challenges at the moment, such as persistently high interest rates, limited housing inventory, and a general decrease in loan volumes. However, I’m appreciative of the diverse loan products and stability of capital that allow Lima One to continue performing well. Navigating these challenges with our skilled team has been a privilege, and I’m hopeful that our efforts will contribute to meeting the ongoing housing shortage and supporting our customers’ needs.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

My first job at 11 was delivering newspapers. This early experience instilled in me the importance of responsibility, organization, and consistency. One specific memory stands out: navigating a snowstorm to ensure all my customers received their papers on time. This taught me the value of dedication and customer satisfaction. These lessons continue to guide me in my professional career today.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

The best advice I’ve received is to pursue something about which you are passionate and at which you are skilled, and don’t be afraid to fail. This approach can lead to a fulfilling career and provide valuable lessons. This guidance has helped me make meaningful choices in my professional life. Aligning my work with my desired lifestyle has been a journey, and I’m thankful for the wisdom that has emerged from both challenges and successes along the way.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

Many might be surprised to learn that overcoming my fear of failure took time and perseverance, but doing so has been transformative in my career. I’m grateful for the varied paths I’ve explored—from starting as an accountant to becoming an entrepreneur in real estate. For instance, one pivotal moment was when I transitioned from investment banking to co-founding a business. These diverse experiences have allowed me to refine my skills and grow both personally and professionally.

Tony Puccetti

CEO

eHouse Studio

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?
eHouse has become one of the industry’s leading commerce service agencies supporting the Shopify Plus, Recharge and Klaviyo platforms, and I’m thrilled to join the company and build on its success. We recently acquired Commerce12 to expand our capabilities and create a true full-service e-commerce agency providing a consultative approach to building highly converting commerce sites plus acquisition and retention programs that facilitate brand growth. I’m most excited about the opportunity to work with our great team of people in Charleston and do something special by becoming the go-to Shopify Plus agency in North America.

What is the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?
Our industry has many challenges, including the rapid advancement of Generative AI that is reshaping how businesses approach automation and customer engagement. We see both opportunities and challenges for e-commerce companies, including shifts in consumer spending patterns and decreased consumer confidence. Adapting to change is crucial for any business, and we’re working with clients to adapt and thrive in this evolving market.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?
My first job was as a paperboy for the San Diego Union-Tribune at the age of 13. It taught me invaluable lessons in work planning, the importance of customer relationships and, even at that young age, how to manage finances. Mostly, it taught me the importance of dedication and hard work.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?
One of the best pieces of advice I received is to avoid getting trapped in the idea of “destination happiness.” It’s best to embrace the present moment rather than wait for specific achievements to bring fulfillment. Appreciate the journey and savor each moment, even the most challenging times. Strive for balance in work and relationships and do the things that bring joy.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?
Most people are surprised that I served as an intelligence analyst in the Marine Corps. I’ve gone from decoding classified information to decoding market trends!