Council selects leadership for Economic Development Board
January 24, 2024
City Council welcomed its first board of directors for the Greenville City Economic Development Corp. (GCEDC) at its formal meeting on January 22. The group’s background includes a diverse mix of economic development sectors – from real estate and investment to non-profits and small business.
The announcement comes as the City’s new economic development organization takes shape. Created in June of 2023, GCEDC is a private non-profit with its own governing board and the ability to raise private funds.
“During the selection process it was important to City Council to choose representatives with diverse backgrounds and experiences that match the priorities of our Economic Development Strategic Plan,” Mayor Knox White said. “We’re pleased to have found such respected leaders in fields such as innovation and entrepreneurship, life science, finance, higher education, workforce, retail, real estate and commercial development. Their combined skillset will give Greenville strong direction to recruit and retain companies in varying sectors.”
The board will carry out the City’s Economic Development Strategic Plan. Members include:
Jeanette Brewster, Program Director, Mill Village Ministries
As the Mill Village Ministries program director, Brewster has been working with entrepreneurs for nearly four years.
“I am driven by a strong desire to unearth the blind spots in our community and contribute my skills and talents to ensure a diverse range of perspectives and ideas are brought to the table,” Brewster said. “Serving on this board aligns perfectly with my dedication to fostering a thriving and inclusive local business environment.
Matthew Gevaert, CEO, Kiyatec
Co-founder of a precision oncology company that helps tailor personalized cancer treatment as well as a NEXT founder, Gevaert brings a decade of management and leadership experience. In 2021, Gevaert chose to locate the Kiyatec headquarters downtown, as an anchor to a medical innovation hub in the city core.
“I am very fortunate to have had significant professional growth as part of the Greenville business community,” Gevaert said. “My experience is in an area of great promise for Greenville’s future and if I can use it to positively contribute to the City’s economic development initiative, I’d be glad to do so.”
Melanie Paddock, Owner, Augustatwenty
A small business professional, Paddock has owned a women’s clothing store in the West End for the past 21 years. One year ago, she expanded the business to include a gift shop and café. And then grew again, signing a lease in the fall of 2023 on another space at 201 Augusta Street.
“Our vision was to create a beautiful, safe, welcoming space. We wanted to expand our community,” Paddock said. “Our business is thriving. We are on track to finish the year with over $2 million in retail sales.”
Gary Daniels, Senior Vice President, PNC Bank
Daniels holds a leadership position with PNC Financial Services Group, one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the United States. Daniels served as a member of the GVL2040 Steering Committee, and that experience piqued his interest in the city’s economic development efforts.
“I stay very engaged with City and Council news and developments,” Daniels said. “I want contribute and play an integral role in this new and exciting era.”
Shontavia Johnson, Associate Vice President for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Clemson University
Johnson leads innovation and entrepreneurship activities at Clemson University, which includes partnerships with industry, government, non-profits and other academic institutions. Currently serving as a board member for NEXT, SCBio and the Village Launch Catalytic Fund, Johnson is a licensed attorney.
“I respect the city’s approach to balancing economic growth with our quality of life and look forward to sharing my insights,” Johnson said. “In addition, I look forward to learning more about how to play my role as an engaged citizen in our city so that I can both implement these lessons and share them with other residents.”
Stephen Navarro, President/CEO, The Furman Co.
Navarro leads Furman’s two operating companies, specializing in development and investment advisory services. Recognized for his expertise and influence in the Upstate business community, Navarro has a passion for sustainable development of land and maintains a leadership role with the Urban Land Institute (ULI), at both the state and national level.
“The City of Greenville is dynamic and growing,” Navarro said. “Our city should have a laser focus on the business industry, quality of jobs and their creation. Anticipating infrastructure and the needs of our future businesses is essential in attracting such.”
