S.C. Department of Commerce announces new Research Director
January 20, 2016
New director to lead agency’s research initiatives, support economic development
The South Carolina Department of Commerce announced that Benjamin D. Johnson has joined the agency as research director. Johnson will manage an interdisciplinary team of researchers and analysts who support the mission of the Department of Commerce as the lead economic development agency of the state.
An experienced research professional, he brings a wealth of management and research skills to the agency, which will be instrumental in supporting the state’s ongoing industry recruitment efforts. Before accepting this new role, Johnson served as senior research analyst for CBRE and research and client services director at Newmark Grubb Wilson Kibler.
Johnson holds bachelor’s degrees in finance and marketing and a master’s degree in business administration with a concentration in international business, from the University of South Carolina. He is a graduate of the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Columbia program and currently serves on the Eau Claire Development Corporation Board.
About S.C. Department of Commerce
As South Carolina’s leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing business grow. Commerce has recruited world-class companies to South Carolina such as BMW, Boeing, Continental, Giti Tire, LPL Financial Holdings, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Toray and Volvo Cars and also supports startups, small and existing business, innovation and rural development initiatives. Commerce partners with the S.C. Technical College System via readySC to support workforce training and recruiting, and with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, which provides worker training and employment opportunities within the state. IBM-Plant Location International reports in 2012, 2013 and 2015 ranked South Carolina first in the nation for attracting jobs through foreign investment. The state won the Gold Shovel Award and the Project of Year Award from Area Development magazine in 2012, 2014 and 2015. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.
