Jesse Smith named as new Executive Director of JEDA

Jesse A. Smith has been elected the new Executive Director of the South Carolina Jobs-Economic Development Authority (JEDA), with his appointment effective October 1. Smith is succeeding Harry A. Huntley, CPA, who is retiring on September 30 after holding the post since 2009.

Smith most recently served as a strategic advisor to companies across the State, helping firms raise capital. Prior to that, he was a Senior Vice President at First Citizens Bank, where he created and expanded relationships with commercial clients.

With 20 years of experience assisting South Carolina companies, Smith is well-positioned to lead JEDA in its mission of facilitating financing economic development statewide. JEDA is a conduit issuer of tax-exempt and taxable bonds, partnering with public and private entities to provide favorable financing that also helps maximize job growth and retention.