Meet The Team

What We Do

As a public and private not-for-profit alliance, we’re on a mission to cultivate and nurture the prosperity of Central South Carolina. We recruit capital investment and help businesses create jobs. Together – with a growing network of industries, talent, and communities – we’re advancing and improving our Region’s economy.

Staff Listings

Nelson Lindsay Central SC Alliance President and CEO

Nelson Lindsay

President & CEO
LinkedIn

"The best thing about the Central SC Region is the diversity of lifestyles that it has to offer. From downtown urban living to small towns to lake living and even horse farms, our Region has it all. No matter your interest, you will be welcomed as family."

Central SC Favorites

Tracy McMillin

Vice President, Economic Development & Operations
LinkedIn

“I love living in such a friendly place that provides endless opportunities for individuals and families looking for an easy affordable lifestyle. There’s an abundance of sunshine filled days and no shortage of beautiful landscapes to explore.”

Central SC Favorites

Stephen Roddey

Director of Business Development
Linkedin

“I love how the area offers big-time opportunities and amenities, yet it still encourages personal relationships and family bonds.”

Central SC Favorites

Kate Bugby

Director of Research
LinkedIn

“Relocating from the Northeast, my favorite part of the Central SC Region is its warmth - both in its people and its climate. From 70 degree days in February to never meeting a stranger, this is a close-knit and vibrant community with great parks and hiking, river access, good food, and an ever growing craft beer scene. This damn Yankee can’t imagine ever leaving!”

Central SC Favorites

Carrie Turner

Director of Marketing
LinkedIn

“This Region is full of so many opportunities to grow, whether that’s professionally, intellectually or experientially. I may be a little biased, as this is my home town, but I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

Central SC Favorites

Sandra Wallace

Director, Central SC Committee of 100
LinkedIn

“Central SC is a great place to network and build lasting relationships with business professionals for a stronger community. After a day of networking, I enjoy relaxing at the Jewel of South Carolina - Lake Murray - in my backyard.”

Central SC Favorites

Noelle Jacobs Noelle Jacobs

Noelle Jacobs

Office Manager & Support Specialist


“Living in the Central SC Region gives me the best of both worlds. Not only can I relax in the natural beauty and enjoy historic features in each of our communities, but there are always new and unique restaurants and venues coming online for when I’m looking for a faster pace.”

Central SC Favorites

Contact us with any questions, comments or concerns you may have. Our team is ready and happy to help!

Meet The Members

john mclaughlin casual photo

John McLauchlin

Administrator & Director of Economic Development, Calhoun County


“Calhoun County is an ideal place for those who appreciate quiet and friendly communities with all the extra amenities within a stone’s throw. The big city isn't far away, as Columbia and Charleston are easily within driving distance.”

Central SC Favorites

ryan coleman casual photo

Ryan Coleman

Director, City of Columbia Economic Development Office
LinkedIn

“I love the fact that there’s always something to do in the Columbia area. The weather is great year round and there are plenty of activities and social offerings such as festivals, outdoor activities, sports, and widespread access to rivers, lakes, and parks. The restaurant scene has been steadily improving over the past few years, and the weekly Soda City Market on Main Street always brings people into downtown. We’ve got all the arts, culture, and recreation anyone could ask for.”

Central SC Favorites

george kosinski casual headshot

George Kosinksi

Executive Director, Clarendon County Economic Development
LinkedIn

“Clarendon County is a recreational paradise. The Central SC Region encompasses the heart of the Carolinas, the possibilities are endless.”

Central SC Favorites

Ann Broadwater, Fairfield County Director Ann Broadwater, Fairfield County Director

Ann Broadwater

Director, Fairfield County Economic Development
LinkedIn

"I was raised in Central SC with generational roots on both sides of my family, and we have always enjoyed the rewards of hard work and integrity in the development of relationships based on honesty and accountability. In all of my travels, both nationally and internationally, I love most of all coming home to the place that has beauty both in it's idyllic natural scenery and warm smiles. In Fairfield County, we enjoy the best of both worlds combining small-town charm with the logistical advantage that offers capital convenience!"

Central SC Favorites

Jeff Burgess casual headshot photo

Jeff Burgess

Director, Kershaw County Economic Development
LinkedIn

“My favorite thing about our community and Central SC is the people you meet here become your family. It has a sense of place with its rich history and offers a variety of lifestyles and opportunities.”

Central SC Favorites

Merle Johnson

Merle Johnson

Executive Director, Orangeburg County Development Commission
LinkedIn

coming soon!

Central SC Favorites

Sarah Johnson casual headshot photo

Sarah Johnson

Director of Economic Development, County of Lexington Department of Economic Development
LinkedIn

“Growing up in Central SC, specifically Lexington County, I take great pride in the opportunity to promote our business friendly community as the ideal place for a company to locate and/or expand. Working together with our partners, such as Central SC Alliance, our team has strategically positioned ourselves to be the conduit with which leaders can utilize when seeking assistance with business resources, workforce needs and building relationships.”

Central SC Favorites

Rick Farmer casual headshot photo

Rick Farmer

Director, Newberry County Economic Development
LinkedIn

“I was born in the Central SC Region and have spent most of my life here. It’s one of the greatest places on the face of the earth to make a living and raise a family. Simply put, this is home.”

Central SC Favorites

Jeff Ruble casual headshot photo

Jeff Ruble

Director, Richland County Economic Development Office
LinkedIn

“People are discovering that Columbia, South Carolina, has transitioned from a sleepy Southern city to an emerging tech-heavy hub with a vibrant university culture.”

Central SC Favorites

Featured News & Stories

Browse our latest news and read about our ambassadors to see what life is really like in Central SC.