Business North Carolina Power List 2021

NORTH CAROLINA’S MOST INFLUENTIAL

LEADERS

presented by

LEADER BOARD

“The measure of a man is what he does with power.” — Plato

Welcome to Business North Carolina’s Power List, our collective report on the state’s most influential leaders.

The list provides facts, facts and more facts about prominent people and their affiliated institutions. It’s also full of wisdom, insight and some humor from the more than 200 listees who responded to our invitation to answer several questions about their organizations, interests and passions.

Our magazine’s editorial team created the list after asking for nominations, talking with dozens of sources and doing extensive research. We’ve done previous lists limited to 100 key people, but we concluded that expanding that number would give a better overview of the people who tend to have the most influence in our state.

A stipulation: There are thousands of terrific leaders across North Carolina, and the list is inherently subjective. We started by selecting industry categories, then sought a selection of representatives from powerful institutions. We tried to pick only one person per organization, though dominant employers such as Bank of America and Wells Fargo have multiple entries for obvious reasons.

Though the goal was a comprehensive list of key state leaders, we know we will have inherently missed some. We look forward to feedback from readers who can remind us of those omissions.

The list has a clear bias toward executives in the few major metropolitan areas where most of the state’s economic growth is occurring. Those leaders also attract most of the media attention. Great leaders in rural areas often get overlooked, unfortunately, though we made an effort to be as inclusive as possible.

We were impressed with the humanity reflected in many of the responses we received. Passion for family is a recurring theme, such as Accenture executive Stephanie Sadowski, who noted that her husband and three daughters “are all math and science nerds who are passionate about giving back to our community.”

Examples of valuable advice provide some of the most enduring comments. Southern Pines banker Mike Mayer learned from his 9-year-old son about focusing on success, not failure.

And Parkdale Mills CEO Andy Warlock of Gastonia recalled a comment from his father-in-law, legendary textile executive Duke Kimbrell, that he had plenty of patience “because I never used any of it.”

Don’t look for elected officials or government executives on this list: We didn’t include them, focusing instead on private- and quasi-private sector officials. A few public employees are included, such as UNC System chancellors, who lead huge organizations and wield major economic clout.

While Plato’s quote at the top of this note presumably includes women, the list shows a continued dominance of male leaders. Our research found that women are gaining more top positions in education, finance, law and other sectors. But family-owned businesses, which remain dominant enterprises in many industries, are still largely led by men.

Thank you to the many people who contributed to this snapshot of the state’s business leadership in early 2021. We are truly appreciative and wish all continued success in the years ahead. ■

Contact David Mildenberg at dmildenberg@businessnc.com.

PUBLISHER Ben Kinney bkinney@businessnc.com

EDITOR David Mildenberg dmildenberg@businessnc.com

MANAGING EDITOR Taylor Wanbaugh twanbaugh@businessnc.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Edward Martin, Pete Anderson, Alyssa Pressler, Andrew Dunn, Emory Rakestraw

CREATIVE MANAGER Peggy Knaack pknaack@businessnc.com

ART DIRECTOR Ralph Voltz

MARKETING COORDINATOR Jennifer Ware jware@businessnc.com

AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST Scott Leonard sleonard@businessnc.com

ADVERTISING SALES

ACCOUNT MANAGERS Sue Graf, western N.C. 704-523-4350 sgraf@businessnc.com

Melanie Weaver Lynch, eastern N.C. 919-855-9380 mweaver@businessnc.com

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EDITORIAL: 704-523-6987

REPRINTS: circulation@businessnc.com

BUSINESSNC.COM

OWNERS

Jack Andrews, Frank Daniels Jr., Frank Daniels III, Lee Dirks, David Woronoff

PUBLISHED BY Old North State Magazines LLC

PRESIDENT David Woronoff

DIRECTORY BY CATEGORY

14 Agriculture

Johnny Barnes

Andrew Boyles

Trey Braswell III

Bryan Dobson

Bobby Ham

Shawn Harding

Tommy Herring

Jay Jandrain

Roy Lee Lindsey

Jim Lynch

H.G. Maxwell III

Dell Murphy Jr.

Tommy Neese

Kevin Phillips

Bill Prestage

Linwood Scott

Linwood Vick

18

Arts, entertainment & sports

Gary Beute

Mark Brazil

Richard Childress

Boo Corrigan

Bubba Cunningham

Tom Gabbard

Joe Gibbs

Tom Glick

Rick Hendrick

Valerie Hillings

Michael Jordan

Steve O’Donnell

Jim Phillips

Ben Sutton

David Tepper

Bill Vassar

Don Waddell

Fred Whitfield

Jeff Wise

24

Economic development

Kelly Andrews

Murchison “Bo” Biggs

Brent Christensen

Chris Chung

Adrienne Cole

Kit Cramer

Brenda Daniels

Clark Duncan

Geoff Durham

Natalie English

Scott Hamilton

Chris Johnson

Howard Johnson

Bob Joyce

Stan Kelly

Janet LaBar

Scott Levitan

Scott MIllar

Ryan Nance

John Nelms

Mark Owens

Chris Platé

Julie Roper

Gary Salamido

Ben Teague

Norris Tolson

Robert Van Geons

Patrick Woodie

Steve Yost

32 Education

Breeden Blackwell

Connie Ledoux Book

Kelli Brown

J. Bradley Creed

Eric Davis

Kandi Deitemeyer

Sheri Everts

Sharon Gaber

Frank Gilliam Jr.

Kevin Guskiewicz

Peter Hans

Jennifer Haygood

Cecilia Holden

Harold Martin

Vincent Price

Nido Qubein

Carol Quillen

Scott Ralls

Randy Ramsey

Mebane Rash

Jenna Robinson

Philip Rogers

Jose “Zito” Sartarelli

Richard Stevens

Thomas Stith III

Hope Williams

Randy Woodson

40

Energy

Joe Brannan

Scott Carlton

Ben Catt

David Doctor

Jay Faison

Lynn Good

Michael Gray

Kenny Habul

Carson Harkrader

Dhiaa Jamil

Julie Janson

Roy Jones

Maria Kingery

Erik Lensch

Charlotte Mitchell

Jay Radcliffe

Shaun Randall

Jayson Waller

Jay Wileman

Markus Wilhelm

46

Finance & insurance

Adam Abram

Anita Hughes Bachmann

Cathy Bessant

Jeff Brown

Richard Bryant

Larry Carroll

Doug Chittenden

Ron Day

Carol Deckbar

Jim Dunn

Porter Durham

Rob Edwards

Lee Fite

Charles Frederick

Mike Freno

Charles Grigg

Peter Gwaltney

Todd Hall

Ramsey Hamadi

Jim Hansen

Frank Holding Jr.

Bob Ingram

Steve Jones

Kelly King

Doug Lebda

Michael Lord

Mary Mack

Chip Mahan

Rick Manske

Aaron Marcus

Reid Marks

Mike Mayer

Brian McCarthy

Ed McMahan

Fielding Miller

Richard Moore

Suzanne Morrison

Robert Newell

Amanda Norton

Mike Painter

Art Pappas

Edwin Poston

Chuck Purvis

David Rea

Brian Reid

Lee Roberts

Bill Rogers Jr.

Jim Rose

Robert Russo

Jason Sandner

Jim Sills

Andrea Smith

Gregory Smith

Tunde Sotunde

Eric Steigerwalt

Dana Stonestreet

Sophia Wajnert

Thad Walton

John Ward

Mary Willis

Ron Wooten

Mark Yusko

DIRECTORY BY CATEGORY

62

Health care

Carl Armato

Chip Baggett

Edward Brown III

Wesley Burks

Mary Jo Cagle

Bruce Cohen

Chris Ellington

Brandon Enfinger

Mickey Foster

Julie A. Freischlag

Donald Gintzig

John Gizdic

Jeff James

Stephen Lawler

Mark McClellan

Sandy McNeill Jr.

Mike Nagowski

Kenneth Overbey

Dale Owen

Chris Peek

John Perkins

Michael Waldrum

A. Eugene Washington

Anita Watkins

Eugene  Woods

70

Hospitality & tourism

Leah Wong Ashburn

Manish Atma

Jim Beley

Rolf Blizzard

Chris Cavanaugh

Bill Cecil Jr.

Jack Cecil

Ashley Christensen

Lisa Cooper

Denny Edwards

Gary Froeba

Jonathan Fussell

Zander Guy Jr.

Stephen Hill

Victoria Isley

Mohammad Jenatian

Mark Laport

John McConnell

Tom Murray

Doyle Parrish

Tom Pashley

Nayan Patel

Greg Walter

Rebecca Whitmarsh

Robert Winston III

76 Information Technology

Robbie Allen

Peter Bourne

Jud Bowman

Robert Bruggeworth

Michael Capps

Anil Chawla

Chris Downie

Joy Drach

David Gardner

Jim Goodnight

Timothy Humphrey

Eric Latalladi

Deverre Lierman

Jesse Lipson

Gina Lofton

O’Hara Macken

David Morken

David Mounts

Jillian Munro

Pierre Naudé

Todd Olson

Sanjay Pal

Michael Praeger

Buffie Rodri

Christy Shaffer

Tim Sweeney

Jim Triandiflou

Jim Whitehurst

Scot Wingo

Bob Young

Matthew Zielinkski

82 Law

Stacy Ackermann

Catherine Barnes

Steve Berlin

Dan Cahill

Joseph Cheshire V

Barbara Christy

Lois Colbert

Nathan Duggins

David Duke

Bradley Evans

James Farrin

James Ferguson II

Charles Francis

Kimberly Gatling

Clark Goodman

Stephen Grabenstein

Thomas Griffin III

Robert Harrington

Harper Heckman

Mark Holt

Patricia Hosmer

Terry Hutchens

Beth Jones

Matthew Keen

David Kirby

Byron Kirkland

Paul Lawrence

Valecia McDowell

Dan McLamb

Tom Mitchell

Jared Mobley

Marifrances Morrison

Leslie Packer

Reid Phillips

Allen Robertson

Perry Safran

Jason Solomon

Wyatt Stevens

Devon Williams

Kevin Williams

Marshall Wall

James Wyatt III

James Yates Jr.

94

Life sciences

Gray Armstrong

Aravind Asokan

Anthony Atala

Jack Bailey

Doug Burns

Brian Caveney

Jim Datin

Fred Eshelman

Vern Hawkins

Chad Henry

Phanesh Koneru

Jamie Macdonald

Martin Meeson

Sheila Mikhail

Kevin O’Brien

Paul Rea

Laura Reece

Patrick Ritschel

Martine Rothblatt

Jude Samulski

Adam Schechter

Taylor Schreiber

Colin Shannon

David Simmons

Scott Uknes

Eric Ward

100 Manufacturing

Darius Adamczyk

Lynn Bamford

Michael Bell

Alex Bernhardt Jr.

Kevin Bowman

Stephen Bratspies

Jim Bryan

Wes Carter

Ted Doheny

Frank Dowd IV

Geoff Foster

Michimasa Fujino

Matt Gregory

Frank Harrison III

Stan Jewell

Kevin Kelly

Eugene  Lowe III

Gregg Lowe

Robert Luddy

Brian Maragno

Jerry  Masters

Guy Meldrum

Gary Michel

Thomas Nelson

Ward Nye

Lieb Oehmig

Marvin Riley

Jeff Scheffer

Glenn Sherrill Jr.

Alex Shuford III

Jim Shuford

Stephen Shuford

Eddie Smith

Leon Topalian

Charles Treadway

Anderson Warlick

Howard Woltz III

Jorge Young

108

Media & communications

Shannon Atkinson

Timothy Biltz

Donald Curtis

Jim Goodmon

Gerald Johnson

Joe O’Connor

Cathy Piche

Robin Quillon

Trey Rabon

Natalia Sanchez

Pam Sander

Whitney Shaw

Robyn Tomlin

Ted Willliams

112

Nonprofits & philanthropies

Elizabeth Brazas

Amy Cooke

Laura Gerald

Rick Glazier

Franklin Graham

Mo Green

Brian Hamilton

Mary Holmes

Thomas Lawrence

Paul Lessard

Rhett Mabry

Michael Marsicano

Jim Melvin

Susan Mims

Lori O’Keefe

MC Pilon

Lisa Purcell

Henry Sanders

Jennifer Whiteside

116

Professional services

Jennifer Appleby

Matthew Beach

Peggy Brookhouse

Gary Cline

Malcomb Coley

Neil Deans

Turan Duda

Joyce Fitzpatrick

Jeff Floyd

Rick French

John Gaulden

Gregg Kiehl

Mattias Kihlman

Paul Koch

John Komisin

John Lucey

Bonnie McElveen-Hunter

Chris Morales

Kevin Mosteller

David Mullen

Jeffrey Paine

Joe Paradise

Crawford Pounds

Matt Ryan

Stephanie Sadowski

Sepi Saidi

Joe Skinner

Matt Snow

Willy Stewart

Randall Taylor

Whitley Wood

124 Real estate

Andy Andrews

Audie Barefoot

Rob Barnhill

Jon Bell

Tommy Camp

Roy Carroll II

Tim Clancy

David Cuthbertson

Pat Dean

Anthony Dilweg

Wyatt Dixon

Scott Duckworth

Brett Gray

Clay Grubb

Gordon Grubb

Neal Hanks

Johno Harris

Reed Jackson

David Jones

Sam Judd

John Kane

Greg Keith Jr.

Fred Klein

Ted Klinck

Pete Lash

Todd Mansfield

Stephen McClure

James Merrifield

Valerie Mitchener

Chase Monroe

EB Moore

Compie Newman

Michael Overton

Peter Pappas

Chris Parr

Chad Paul

Greg Peele

Roger Perry

J. Eric Pike

Gregory Poole III

Stuart Proffitt

Rusty Pulliam

Gary Rabon

David Ravin

Pat Riley

Pat Rodgers

Arthur Samet

Buddy Seymour

Tim Smith

Paul Sullivan

Thomas Taft Sr.

Robin Team

Eddie Vannoy

Jim Wallace

Tammy Whitworth

138

Retail

Rodney Antolock

Jose Armario

Bill Boddie

John Cato

Jeff Dyke

Marvin Ellison

Don Flow

Brian George

Tom Greco

Gary Green

Meg Ham

Lisa Harper

Jeff Harris

Jim Lanning

Mark Lardie

Tim Lowe

Art Pope

Jason Potter

Mike Tattersfield

Lance Trenary

Stephen Yalof

142 Transportation

Kevin Baker

Ken Beyer

Brian Clark

Bill Collins

Roy Cox

Michael Fox

Greg Gantt

Glenn Gonzales

Michael Landguth

Ralph Lopez Massas

Phil Peck

Paul Thompson

Carl Warren

DIRECTORY BY LAST NAME

AAbram, Adam, 47

Ackermann, Stacy, 83

Adamczyk, Darius, 101

Allen, Robbie, 77

Andrews, Kelly, 25

Andrews, Andy, 125

Antolock, Rodney, 139

Appleby, Jennifer, 117

Armario, Jose, 139

Armato, Carl, 63

Armstrong, Gray, 95

Ashburn, Leah Wong, 71

Asokan, Aravind, 95

Atala, Anthony, 95

Atkinson, Shannon, 109

Atma, Manish, 71

BBachmann, Anita Hughes, 47

Baggett, Chip, 63

Bailey, Jack, 95 Baker, Kevin, 143

Bamford, Lynn, 101

Barefoot, Audie, 125 Barnes, Johnny, 15

Barnes, Catherine, 83

Barnhill, Rob, 125

Beach, Matthew, 117

Beley, Jim, 71

Bell, Michael, 101 Bell, Jon, 125

Berlin, Steve, 83

Bernhardt Jr., Alex, 101

Bessant, Cathy, 47

Beute, Gary, 19

Beyer, Ken, 143

Biggs, Murchison “Bo”, 25

Biltz, Timothy, 109 Blackwell, Breeden, 33 Blizzard, Rolf, 71

Boddie, Bill, 139

Book, Connie Ledoux, 33

Bourne, Peter, 77 Bowman, Jud, 77

Bowman, Kevin, 101

Boyles, Andrew, 15

Brannan, Joe, 41

Braswell III, Trey, 15

Bratspies, Stephen, 101

Brazas, Elizabeth, 113

Brazil, Mark, 19

Brookhouse, Peggy, 117

Brown, Kelli, 33

Brown, Jeff, 47

Brown III, Edward, 63

Bruggeworth, Robert, 77

Bryan, Jim, 101

Bryant, Richard, 47

Burks, Wesley, 63

Burns, Doug, 95

CCagle, Mary Jo, 64

Cahill, Dan, 83

Camp, Tommy, 125

Capps, Michael, 77

Carlton, Scott, 41

Carroll, Larry, 47

Carroll II, Roy, 125

Carter, Wes, 101

Cato, John, 139

Catt, Ben, 41

Cavanaugh, Chris, 71

Caveney, Brian, 95

Cecil, Jack, 72

Cecil Jr., Bill , 71

Chawla, Anil, 77

Cheshire V, Joseph, 83

Childress, Richard, 19

Chittenden, Doug, 48 Christensen, Brent, 25 Christensen, Ashley, 72 Christy, Barbara, 83

Chung, Chris, 25

Clancy, Tim, 126 Clark, Brian, 143 Cline, Gary, 117 Cohen, Bruce, 64

Colbert, Lois, 83 Cole, Adrienne, 25 Coley, Malcomb, 118

Collins, Bill, 143

Cooke, Amy, 113 Cooper, Lisa, 72 Corrigan, Boo, 19

Cox, Roy, 143

Cramer, Kit, 26

Creed, J. Bradley, 33 Cunningham, Bubba, 19

Curtis, Donald, 109

Cuthbertson, David, 126

DDaniels, Brenda, 26

Datin, Jim, 95

Davis, Eric, 33 Day, Ron, 48 Dean, Pat, 126

Deans, Neil, 117

Deckbar, Carol, 48

Deitemeyer, Kandi, 33 Dilweg, Anthony, 126 Dixon, Wyatt, 126 Dobson, Bryan, 15 Doctor, David, 41 Doheny, Ted, 102 Dowd IV, Frank, 102 Downie, Chris, 77

Drach, Joy , 77 Duckworth, Scott, 126 Duda, Turan, 118 Duggins, Nathan, 84 Duke, David, 84

Duncan, Clark, 26 Dunn, Jim, 48 Durham, Geoff, 26 Durham, Porter, 48 Dyke, Jeff, 139

E

Edwards, Rob, 48 Edwards, Denny, 72 Ellington, Chris, 64 Ellison, Marvin, 139 Enfinger, Brandon, 64 English, Natalie, 26 Eshelman, Fred, 95 Evans, Bradley, 84 Everts, Sheri, 33

FFaison, Jay, 41

Farrin, James, 84

Ferguson II, James, 84 Fite, Lee, 48 Fitzpatrick, Joyce, 118 Flow, Don, 139 Floyd, Jeff, 118 Foster, Mickey, 64 Foster, Geoff, 102 Fox, Michael, 143 Francis, Charles, 85

Frederick, Charles, 48 Freischlag, Julie A., 65 French, Rick, 118

Freno, Mike, 48

Froeba, Gary, 72

Fujino, Michimasa, 102 Fussell, Jonathan, 72

GGabbard, Tom, 19

Gaber, Sharon, 34

Gantt, Greg, 143

Gardner, David, 78

Gatling, Kimberly, 85 Gaulden, John, 119 George, Brian, 139

Gerald, Laura, 113 Gibbs, Joe, 19 Gilliam Jr., Frank, 34

Gintzig, Donald, 65

Gizdic, John, 66

Glazier, Rick, 113 Glick, Tom, 19

Gonzales, Glenn, 144

Good, Lynn, 41

Goodman, Clark, 86

Goodmon, Jim, 109 Goodnight, Jim, 78

Grabenstein, Stephen, 86 Graham, Franklin, 113 Gray, Michael, 41 Gray, Brett, 126

Greco, Tom, 140

Green, Mo, 113 Green, Gary, 140 Gregory, Matt, 102 Griffin III, Thomas, 86

Grigg, Charles, 50 Grubb, Clay, 127 Grubb, Gordon, 127

Guskiewicz, Kevin, 35

Guy Jr., Zander, 73

Gwaltney, Peter, 50

HHabul, Kenny, 41

Hall, Todd, 50

Ham, Bobby, 15

Ham, Meg, 140

Hamadi, Ramsey, 50

DIRECTORY BY LAST NAME

Hamilton, Scott, 26

Hamilton, Brian, 113

Hanks, Neal, 128

Hans, Peter, 35

Hansen, Jim, 50

Harding, Shawn, 15

Harkrader, Carson, 42

Harper, Lisa, 140

Harrington, Robert, 86

Harris, Johno, 128 Harris, Jeff, 140

Harrison III, Frank, 102 Hawkins, Vern, 96

Haygood, Jennifer, 36

Heckman, Harper, 86

Hendrick, Rick, 20

Henry, Chad, 96

Herring, Tommy, 15 Hill, Stephen, 73

Hillings, Valerie, 20

Holden, Cecilia, 35

Holding Jr., Frank, 50 Holmes, Mary, 114 Holt, Mark, 86

Hosmer, Patricia, 87

Humphrey, Timothy, 78

Hutchens, Terry, 87

IIngram, Bob, 50 Isley, Victoria, 73

JJackson, Reed, 128

James, Jeff, 66

Jamil, Dhiaa, 42

Jandrain, Jay, 15

Janson, Julie, 42

Jenatian, Mohammad, 74

Jewell, Stan, 102

Johnson, Chris, 28

Johnson, Howard, 28

Johnson, Gerald, 109 Jones, Roy, 42

Jones, Steve, 51

Jones, Beth, 87

Jones, David, 128

Jordan, Michael, 20

Joyce, Bob, 28

Judd, Sam, 128

KKane, John, 128

Keen, Matthew, 88

Keith Jr., Greg, 128

Kelly, Stan, 28

Kelly, Kevin, 103

Kiehl, Gregg, 119

Kihlman, Mattias, 119

King, Kelly, 51

Kingery, Maria, 43

Kirby, David, 88

Kirkland, Byron, 88

Klein, Fred, 130

Klinck, Ted, 130

Koch, Paul, 119

Komisin, John, 119

Koneru, Phanesh, 96

LLaBar, Janet, 28

Landguth, Michael, 144

Lanning, Jim, 140

Laport, Mark, 74

Lardie, Mark, 140

Lash, Pete, 130

Latalladi, Eric, 78

Lawler, Stephen, 66

Lawrence, Paul, 88

Lawrence, Thomas, 114

Lebda, Doug, 51

Lensch, Erik, 43

Lessard, Paul, 114

Levitan, Scott, 28

Lierman, Deverre, 78

Lindsey, Roy Lee, 15

Lipson, Jesse, 78

Lofton, Gina, 78

Lopez Massas, Ralph, 144

Lord, Michael, 51

Lowe, Gregg, 103 Lowe, Tim, 141

Lowe III, Eugene , 103

Lucey, John, 120

Luddy, Robert, 103 Lynch, Jim, 15

MMabry, Rhett, 114

Macdonald, Jamie, 96

Mack, Mary, 52

Macken, O’Hara, 78 Mahan, Chip, 52

Mansfield, Todd, 130 Manske, Rick, 52

Maragno, Brian, 103 Marcus, Aaron, 52 Marks, Reid, 52

Marsicano, Michael, 114

Martin, Harold, 36

Masters, Jerry, 104 Maxwell III, H.G., 15 Mayer, Mike, 52

McCarthy, Brian, 53

McClellan, Mark, 66 McClure, Stephen, 130 McConnell, John, 74

McDowell, Valecia, 88

McElveen-Hunter, Bonnie, 120 McLamb, Dan, 88 McMahan, Ed, 53 McNeill Jr., Sandy, 66 Meeson, Martin, 96 Meldrum, Guy, 104 Melvin, Jim, 114 Merrifield, James, 130 Michel, Gary, 104 Mikhail, Sheila, 96 MIllar, Scott, 28 Miller, Fielding, 54 Mims, Susan, 114 Mitchell, Charlotte, 44 Mitchell, Tom, 89 Mitchener, Valerie, 130 Mobley, Jared, 89 Monroe, Chase, 131 Moore, Richard, 54 Moore, EB, 131 Morales, Chris, 120 Morken, David, 79 Morrison, Suzanne, 54 Morrison, Marifrances, 90 Mosteller, Kevin, 120 Mounts, David, 79

Mullen, David, 120 Munro, Jillian, 79 Murphy Jr., Dell, 16 Murray, Tom, 74

NNagowski, Mike, 66 Nance, Ryan, 29

Naudé, Pierre, 79

Neese, Tommy, 16

Nelms, John, 29

Nelson, Thomas, 104

Newell, Robert, 54

Newman, Compie, 132 Norton, Amanda, 54 Nye, Ward, 105

OO’Brien, Kevin, 97

O’Connor, Joe, 109

O’Donnell, Steve, 20

O’Keefe, Lori, 115

Oehmig, Lieb, 105 Olson, Todd, 79

Overbey, Kenneth, 68

Overton, Michael, 132 Owen, Dale, 68

Owens, Mark, 29

PPacker, Leslie, 90

Paine, Jeffrey, 120

Painter, Michael, 54

Pal, Sanjay, 79

Pappas, Art, 56

Pappas, Peter, 132

Paradise, Joe, 121

Parr, Chris, 132

Parrish, Doyle, 74

Pashley, Tom, 75

Patel, Nayan, 75

Paul, Chad, 132

Peck, Phil, 144

Peek, Chris, 68

Peele, Greg, 132

Perkins, John, 68

Perry, Roger, 132

Phillips, Kevin, 16

Phillips, Jim, 20

Phillips, Reid, 90

Piche, Cathy, 109 Pike, J. Eric, 134

Pilon, MC, 115

Platé, Chris, 29

Poole III, Gregory, 134 Pope, Art, 141

Poston, Edwin, 56

Potter, Jason, 141

Pounds, Crawford, 121

Praeger, Michael, 79

Prestage, Bill, 16

Price, Vincent, 36

Proffitt, Stuart, 134

Pulliam, Rusty, 134

Purcell, Lisa, 115

Purvis, Chuck, 56

QQubein, Nido, 36

Quillen, Carol, 36

Quillon, Robin, 110

RRabon, Trey, 110

Rabon, Gary, 134

Radcliffe, Jay, 44

Ralls, Scott, 36

Ramsey, Randy, 37

Randall, Shaun, 44

Rash, Mebane, 37

Ravin, David, 134

Rea, David, 56

Rea, Paul, 97

Reece, Laura, 97

Reid, Brian, 56

Riley, Marvin, 105

Riley, Pat, 134

Ritschel, Patrick, 97

Roberts, Lee, 56

Robertson, Allen, 90

Robinson, Jenna, 38

Rodgers, Pat, 134

Rodri, Buffie, 80

Rogers, Philip, 38

Rogers Jr., Bill, 57

Roper, Julie, 30

Rose, Jim, 57

Rothblatt, Martine, 97

Russo, Robert, 57

Ryan, Matt, 121

SSadowski, Stephanie, 121

Safran, Perry, 90

Saidi, Sepi, 121

Salamido, Gary, 30

Samet, Arthur, 135

Samulski, Jude, 97

Sanchez, Natalia, 110

Sander, Pam, 110

Sanders, Henry, 115

Sandner, Jason, 57

Sartarelli, Jose “Zito”, 38

Schechter, Adam, 97

Scheffer, Jeff, 105

Schreiber, Taylor, 98

Scott, Linwood, 16

Seymour, Buddy, 135

Shaffer, Christy, 80

Shannon, Colin, 98

Shaw, Whitney, 110

Sherrill Jr., Glenn, 105

Shuford, Jim, 106

Shuford, Stephen, 106

Shuford III, Alex, 106

Sills, Jim, 57

Simmons, David, 98

Skinner, Joe, 122

Smith, Andrea, 58

Smith, Gregory, 58

Smith, Eddie, 106

Smith, Tim, 135

Snow, Matt, 122

Solomon, Jason, 91

Sotunde, Tunde, 58

Steigerwalt, Eric, 58

Stevens, Richard, 38

Stevens, Wyatt, 91

Stewart, Willy, 122

Stith III, Thomas, 38

Stonestreet, Dana, 60

Sullivan, Paul, 136

Sutton, Ben, 21

Sweeney, Tim, 80

TTaft Sr., Thomas, 136

Tattersfield, Mike, 141

Taylor, Randall, 122

Teague, Ben, 30

Team, Robin, 136

Tepper, David, 22 Thompson, Paul, 144

Tolson, Norris, 30

Tomlin, Robyn, 110

Topalian, Leon, 106

Treadway, Charles, 106

Trenary, Lance, 141

Triandiflou, Jim, 80

UUknes, Scott, 98

VVan Geons, Robert, 30

Vannoy, Eddie, 136

Vassar, Bill, 22

Vick, Linwood, 16

WWaddell, Don, 22

Wajnert, Sophia, 60 Waldrum, Michael, 69 Wall, Marshall, 92

Wallace, Jim, 137

Waller, Jayson, 44 Walter, Greg, 75 Walton, Thad, 60 Ward, John, 60

Ward, Eric, 98

Warlick, Anderson, 107 Warren, Carl, 144

Washington, A. Eugene, 69 Watkins, Anita, 69

Whitehurst, Jim, 80 Whiteside, Jennifer, 115 Whitfield, Fred, 22

Whitmarsh, Rebecca, 75 Whitworth, Tammy, 137 Wileman, Jay, 44 Wilhelm, Markus, 44 Williams, Hope, 38 Williams, Devon, 92 Williams, Kevin, 91 Willis, Mary, 60 Willliams, Ted, 110

Wingo, Scot, 80

Winston III, Robert, 75 Wise, Jeff, 22

Woltz III, Howard, 107

Wood, Whitley, 122

Woodie, Patrick, 31

Woods, Eugene , 69 Woodson, Randy, 38

Wooten, Ron, 60

Wyatt III, James, 92

YYalof, Stephen, 141

Yates Jr., James, 92

Yost, Steve, 31

Young, Bob, 81

Young, Jorge, 107

Yusko, Mark, 60

ZZielinkski, Matthew, 81

AGRICULTURE

Agriculture and agribusiness, including food, forestry and fiber, are two of North Carolina’s largest industries with an economic impact of nearly $93 billion in 2020. The industry accounts for about 18% of the state’s employment base. The state’s 46,000 farms cover 84 million acres.

Researchers at the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at N.C. State University use a drone to capture data from plants, Raleigh

JOHNNY BARNES

president | Barnes Farming and Farm Pak

Spring Hope

Since Barnes Farming started in the 1960s, Barnes, 56, has seen the family business become a leading U.S. sweet potato grower. It operates in seven counties along Interstate 95.

First job: I picked up drink bottles on the farm. I bought my girlfriend a necklace with the $14 I earned.

Proud family accomplishment: Our kids. They all graduated college and have successful careers. Most important, they’re good people.

Person you admire: Mayo Boddie. He and his brother, Nick, put people first. That’s why [Rocky-Mount-based] Boddie-Noell has been so successful.

Favorite recent book: Enjoy the Ride by Steve Gilliland

ANDREW BOYLES

complex manager | Tyson Foods

Wilkesboro

Boyles is responsible for approximately 3,000 employees at the Tyson Foods facility in Wilkesboro. He’s president of the North Carolina Poultry Federation board for the 2020-21 term. He has a bachelor’s in poultry science from N.C. State University.

ANDREW “TREY” BRASWELL III

president | Braswell Family Farms

Nashville

Braswell is the fourth-generation president of his family farm. The N.C. State graduate started the farm’s organic operation in 2018. Amid the pandemic, Braswell Farms has donated thousands of eggs to local food pantries. It’s the second largest U.S. Eggland’s Best producer.

BRYAN DOBSON

CEO | Quality Equipment

Fuquay-Varina

A graduate of East Carolina University, Dobson has been working for the John Deere tractor dealership since joining his family business, Farmland Tractor, in 1997. It later merged with East Coast Equipment, then with Quality Equipment in 2018. In February, the company opened a location in Pittsboro.

BOBBY HAM

owner | Ham Farms

Snow Hill

Ham, who has led Ham Farms since the 1980s, is a graduate of East Carolina University. He helped establish one of the biggest U.S. sweet potato farming businesses. In the past five years, the company has started producing processed foods including vegetable and fruit purees.

SHAWN HARDING

CEO | N.C. Farm Bureau

Raleigh

Harding was elected the 12th president of the N.C. Farm Bureau in 2019, succeeding longtime chief Larry Wooten. It operates a property-casualty insurance company with annual revenue topping $1 billion. An N.C, State University graduate, he works at his Southside Farms in Chocowinity.

TOMMY HERRING

president | Hog Slat

Newton Grove

Hog Slat, a manufacturer of equipment used by hog farmers, has more than 1,000 employees at plants in the U.S. and several other countries and more than 80 retail stores. The business founded by Herring’s father, Billy, in 1969 also breeds hogs.

JAY JANDRAIN

CEO | Butterball

Garner

Jandrain is responsible for business strategy at Butterball, the largest turkey producer in the nation. The Cornell University graduate joined the company as director of research and development in 2002. The business is jointly owned by Goldsboro-based Goldsboro Milling and Merriam, Kan.-based Seaboard Corp.

ROY LEE LINDSEY

CEO | N.C. Pork Council

Raleigh

Lindsey became CEO of the trade association in January after serving 20 years with the Oklahoma Pork Council. He has bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Oklahoma State University. The council was formed in 1962. North Carolina ranks among the five largest pork production states.

JIM LYNCH

president | N.C. Pork Council

Goldsboro

Lynch was first elected to the trade group in 2018 to serve on the board at large before serving as vice president and then president in 2020. The North Carolina State University alum was raised on a family farm in Wayne County.

H.G. MAXWELL III

chairman | Goldsboro Milling

Goldsboro

The Maxwells have long ranked among the state’s biggest farm families. They are closing their Maxwell Foods hog operations after 31 years, citing low pork prices. About 150 contract farms were affected. Maxwell is a graduate and former trustee at Campbell University. Goldsboro owns half of the Butterball turkey brand.

AGRICULTURE

WENDELL “DELL” MURPHY JR.

CEO | Murphy Family Ventures

Rose Hill

Murphy Family Ventures began as a small farm founded by his father, Wendell Murphy Sr., and grandfather, Holmes Murphy, in 1962. It became a leading U.S. pork producer before merging with Smithfield Foods in 2000. The business operates in several different industries, employing 1,000 people. Murphy’s wife, Wendy, is vice chair of the UNC System Board of Governors.

TOMMY NEESE

CEO | Neese Sausage

Greensboro

Neese is the fourth generation of his family to run their sausage business, which started more than 100 years ago.

The Elon University graduate also serves as an industry representative for the N.C. Pork Council and as vice president of N.C. Meat Processors Association.

LINWOOD H. SCOTT III

vice president | Scott Farms

Lucama

KEVIN PHILLIPS

president | Case Farms Troutman

Phillips has led the poultry producer in his current post since 2012. The company employs more than 3,000 at plants and feed mills in North Carolina and Ohio, where Thomas Shelton founded the business in 1986.

BILL PRESTAGE

CEO | Prestage Farms

Clinton

Prestage, 85, has been in the farm business since 1967 when starting Carroll’s Foods with Ottis Carroll. He founded Prestage Farms in 1982. The pork and turkey producer now employs more than 2,000 and has contracts with more than 450 farm families.

LINWOOD VICK

general manager | Vick Family Farms

Wilson

Vick Family Farms began in 1975 with 25 acres. It now tops 7,000 across Wilson, Nash and Edgecombe counties. Vick, a graduate of N.C. State Agriculture Institute in 1997, has seen the farm expand to include tobacco, sweet potatoes, cotton, soybeans, wheat and corn.

Linwood, 51, attended Atlantic Christian College, now Barton College, before returning to his family’s farm. Since then he’s worked his way up to vice president and co-owner alongside his father, Linwood “Sonny” Scott Jr., and brother, Dewey Scott.

First job: Farming

Employer’s distinction: We strive to be innovative and expansive in our thinking and approach to not only business but life in general. As a family operation, we understand the need for cooperation in our business and community. Through innovation, we are able to provide a better and safer workplace and work/life balance for our staff and be good neighbors to the community.

Proud family accomplishment: We are family-owned and -operated. There are three generations working together today in various capacities. One of the things I am proudest of is our ability to work together on the farm, offer an opportunity for all members to be included or have the freedom to pursue areas of other interest or opportunities outside our business.

Favorite passion: Time spent with family and members of the community coaching youth sports through volunteer work with Wilson Christian Academy and other organizations. Working with other organizations and boards to encourage growth and stability in the community. When not coaching a team at Wilson Christian Academy, I enjoy spending time with my son.

Person you admire: My mom and dad (Alice and Sonny Scott). Through the tough times, they never wavered in their dedication and determination to our family, the farm, employees, and community. Their tireless efforts and guidance have set the standard that our family and business follows to this day.

Decision you would change: I would have finished college. Being a bit older and wiser, I think the experience of college would have given me a different perspective and more and different relationships.

Something surprising: I am an avid runner. Running five to six miles per week allows time to think and reflect. There is a freedom to be in your own thoughts and find solutions to different situations. Being able to run and have that time to reflect is great to me.

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORTS

Entertainment through arts, athletics, motorsports and many other cultural activities has a big collective financial impact in North Carolina. Leaders in the sector include perhaps the greatest basketball player of all time and the only person inducted in both the NASCAR and Pro Football halls of fame.

The U.S. National Whitewater Center, Charlotte

GARY BUETE

CEO | North Carolina FC Youth Raleigh

An All-American soccer player at Lander University in Greenwood, S.C., before getting his master’s degree in sports management from East Tennessee State University, Buete joined NCFC Youth in 2014. With more than 13,000 players, it’s the country’s largest youth-to-professional club.

MARK BRAZIL

tournament director | Wyndham Championship

Greensboro

In his 20 years working on the men’s professional golf tournament, Brazil’s toughest challenge came last year, when COVID-19 kept spectators away. But he persevered, preserving its spot on the PGA Tour’s abbreviated schedule and retaining its biggest sponsors, Wyndham and Truist. Born and raised in Asheville, he is a graduate of Baylor University and received the J.R. “Digger” Smith Award in 2019, junior golf’s highest honor.

BUBBA CUNNINGHAM

athletic director | UNC Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill

Since the Notre Dame graduate arrived in 2011, UNC Chapel Hill Tar Heels have won 13 national titles. Cunningham joined the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Committee last year, and the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics named him its 2019-20 AD of the Year. Before the pandemic, UNC athletics had annual revenue of more than $107 million.

RICHARD CHILDRESS

owner | Richard Childress Racing

Welcome

Childress, 75, founded his stock-car racing team in 1969. The Winston-Salem native did it all, including driving, the first 12 years. While Ricky Rudd gave the team its first NASCAR win in 1983, it was Dale Earnhardt, upon returning to the team in 1984 after driving for Childress in a few races in 1981, who brought the most success, including six championships. The team has 400 members and fields three cars, two in NASCAR’s Cup series and one in its XFINITY series. He was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2017. In 2004, he started Childress Vineyards near Lexington. It has become one of the state’s biggest wineries.

BOO CORRIGAN

athletic director | N.C. State University

Raleigh

Corrigan was hired in 2009 after holding the same title at the U.S. Military Academy. The Notre Dame and Virginia Commonwealth University graduate leads a 23-team program that has about $90 million in annual revenue and more than 200 full-time employees.

TOM GABBARD

CEO | Blumenthal Performing Arts

Charlotte

Named CEO in 2003, Gabbard manages 110 employees and six Queen City theaters, which host more than 1,000 performances most years. Closed since May 2020 because of the pandemic, the organization is promoting its 2021-22 PNC Broadway Lights Series. He earned an MBA in arts management from Golden Gate University and was invited to join the COVID-19 Theatre Think Tank last year, helping the industry meet the challenges spawned by the pandemic.

JOE GIBBS

owner | Joe Gibbs Racing

Huntersville

Gibbs, 80, is the only person to be inducted into both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and NASCAR Hall of Fame. He coached the NFL’s Washington Redskins from 1981 to 1992 and 2004 to 2007 and won three Super Bowls. He started his racing team in 1992. It currently fields four Cup Series teams and four XFINITY Series teams. Gibbs’ drivers have won five Cup Series championships.

TOM GLICK

president | Carolina Panthers

Charlotte

Since being hired in 2018, Glick has been busy, updating Bank of America Stadium, starting a team headquarters in Rock Hill, S.C., and organizing Charlotte’s new Major League soccer team. The Cornell University graduate was an executive for top U.S. and English soccer teams from 2008-18.

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORTS

RICK HENDRICK

chairman, CEO | Hendrick Automotive Group; owner | Hendrick Motorsports

Charlotte

His company is the country’s largest privately held automotive retail organization with 93 dealerships and 21 collision centers in 13 states. He’s also a legendary racing leader with more than 260 NASCAR Cup Series wins and 13 championships to his teams’ credit since 1984. Hendrick, 71, was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2017 and Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 2020. The Warrenton native also co-owns JR Motorsports with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Kelly Earnhardt Miller.

First job: Working on my family’s tobacco farm in Palmer Springs, Va.

Employer’s distinction: I’ve never seen a business with unhappy employees and happy customers. We believe people are our No. 1 asset, and the company’s commitment to our teammates has an overwhelmingly positive impact on customers. Communication, recognition, teamwork, giving back to our communities — they all contribute to a strong culture.

North Carolina’s challenge: Controlling the pandemic

Favorite passions: Spending time with family, deep-sea fishing, and collecting cars and music memorabilia

Person you admire: My dad. Nearly all of the lessons that I’ve applied to our business were learned from him on the farm.

Favorite music: Country

Something surprising: I trained to be a tool-and-die maker.

VALERIE HILLINGS

director | North Carolina Museum of Art Raleigh

Hillings, 49, joined the museum in 2018 after 14 years with the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and Foundation in New York City. She is a graduate of Duke University and earned a Ph.D. from New York University.

Employer’s distinction: The museum is a public-private partnership between state government and a nonprofit foundation.

North Carolina’s challenge: Supporting the health of residents

Best advice: My mother, citing my grandfather, said to never give up. I have thought about this regularly during the past year.

Something surprising: As a teenager, I aspired to work at MTV because its music videos combined visual, musical and performative aspects to tell a story.

MICHAEL JORDAN

chairman | Charlotte Hornets Jupiter, Fla., and Charlotte

The basketball star and team owner won a national championship at UNC Chapel Hill and six as a Chicago Bull in the NBA. Jordan, 58, this year donated $10 million to Novant Health to help open two clinics in Wilmington, where he grew up. In 2010, he became the first former NBA player to own a majority stake in a team.

First job: Maintenance at the El-Berta Motor Inn in Wilmington while I was in high school. I made minimum wage of $3.10 an hour.

Favorite passions: Golf and fishing. I’ve played golf for almost 40 years, and I still love it. Fishing is still new to me.

People you admire: It’s hard to put into words how much I admire my parents, James and Deloris Jordan. Their hard work and commitment to family made them tremendous examples for my brothers, sisters and me.

STEVE O’DONNELL

executive vice president | NASCAR Charlotte

O’Donnell, 52, worked his way up from the marketing department, where he started almost 25 years ago. He learned about NASCAR while studying at Rollins College, not far from the racing organization’s Daytona, Fla., headquarters. NASCAR’s 2021 Cup schedule features the most new tracks since the 1960s.

JIM PHILLIPS

commissioner | Atlantic Coast Conference Greensboro

In February the former Northwestern athletic director succeeded John Swofford, who led the league for 24 years as it expanded to 15 teams from nine. The University of Illinois graduate has a doctorate in educational administration from the University of Tennessee. The conference had revenue of $455 million in 2019, including TV contracts of $288 million.

BEN SUTTON

chairman | Teall Capital Winston-Salem

Sutton, 63, founded ISP Sports in 1993, then he sold the company to IMG College in 2010. Seven years later, he started Teall Investments, a private-equity firm that works with various businesses including Dyehard Fan Supply, an events merchandising company, and Sunshine Beverage, an energy drink maker.

First job: Selling Christmas cards door-to-door at age 8

Employer distinction: Our partners at Teall are all veteran, experienced entrepreneurs in the sports and entertainment space, not just investors. That experience and subject matter expertise in building companies to last in a segment we know well just adds so much value to our portfolio companies. To “see around corners” is an acquired discipline that only gets better with practice and repetition.

North Carolina’s challenge: Our public education system was already way behind and has not kept up. The gap with other Sunbelt states was exacerbated during the pandemic by politics and keeping our students out of in-person learning for most of a year. We have much work to do there.

Best advice: Dad told us that “there is no such thing as status quo. You’re either getting ahead or falling behind.” Hard work is paramount to success.

Favorite passion: Playing golf — rather poorly

Person you admire: John Wooden, who I consider to be the greatest coach in American sports history. I was privileged to know him and have learned so much in terms of leadership development from our conversations and his writings through the years. Every single principle he taught is applicable in building great cultures, teams and enterprises in business.

Decision you would change: I’m writing a book right now and would say that some, maybe most, of the best lessons I ever learned in life and as an entrepreneur were rooted in mistakes and/or failures. That’s how you get better.

Favorite recent book: Wine and the White House — an unapologetic plug for the author and my friend, Washington Post

Publisher Fred Ryan

Favorite music: ‘70s and yacht rock

People don’t know: I travel to at least a dozen college campuses each year to lead conversations with students who are bombarded by messaging promoting collectivism on the morality of capitalism, the benefits of free enterprise and the American ideals of liberty and rugged independence.

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORTS

DAVID TEPPER

owner | Carolina Panthers

Charlotte

Tepper, 63, expanded into sports ownership after earning billions at his Appaloosa Management hedge fund based in Miami Beach, Fla. He bought the NFL team in 2018 and paid $325 million for a pro soccer team. With an MBA from Carnegie Mellon University, he has a net worth of $14.5 billion, Forbes says.

BILL VASSAR

executive vice president | EUE/ Screen Gems Studios

Wilmington

After decades in television and radio, Vassar joined EUE/Screen Gems Studios about 15 years ago. Its 23 stages help make it among the East Coast’s largest full-service television and film production companies. Shooting has resumed after a pandemic-induced stoppage last year.

FRED WHITFIELD

president, vice chairman | Hornets

Sports & Entertainment

Charlotte

Since joining the NBA team in 2006, Whitfield, 62, has led major changes, including rebranding as the Charlotte Hornets and hosting major tournaments and concerts at Spectrum Center. He is a Greensboro native and Campbell University graduate.

First job: Internal auditor for Burlington Industries

North Carolina’s challenge: Returning fans and patrons to live indoor sports and entertainment in a safe manner

Best advice: Coach Press Maravich encouraged me to attend law school.

Proud family accomplishment: My mom and dad earned master’s degrees from North Carolina A&T State University on the same day in 1960. That was a rarity for an African American couple.

Favorite passion: Nonprofits that I founded: Achievements Unlimited Basketball School and HoopTee Charities

People you admire: Nike founder Phil Knight for his leadership, innovation and creating a strong inclusive culture; NBA Commissioner Adam Silver for his calm, steady leadership through innumerable tough challenges

Favorite recent book: You Can’t Go Wrong Doing Right by Robert (Bob) J. Brown

DON WADDELL

president, general manager | Carolina Hurricanes

Raleigh

Waddell is a Northern Michigan University graduate who played one game in the NHL. He started with the Hurricanes as president of team operator Gale Force Sports & Entertainment in 2014. He added general manager to his title in 2018.

JEFF WISE

president, CEO | U.S. National Whitewater Center

Charlotte

Wise, 57, has been a key force in building one of the state’s top tourist attractions since 2001. The Emory University School of Law graduate has worked as an attorney and for various startup companies.

First job: Cutting grass

North Carolina’s challenge: Managing growth in a balanced manner

Favorite passion: Riding bikes

Decision you would change: Countless times I did not hold my opinion to myself.

Favorite recent book: Churchill: A Study in Greatness by Geoffrey Best

Favorite music: Americana

Something surprising: I sing very loudly — and poorly — while in my car.

PHOTO OF JEFF WISE BY PETER TAYLOR

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Promoting growth in North Carolina is a big industry in itself. This section cites key state and local officials responsible for attracting and retaining businesses. The state ranked No. 3 nationally for business climate, according to 326 site-selection experts surveyed by Development Counsellors International, a New York-based marketing firm. Last year was the strongest year in more than a decade, with 147 corporate relocation and expansion deals expected to create more than 20,000 jobs and $6.3 billion in capital investment, state officials say.

KELLY ANDREWS

executive director | Pitt County Development Commission

Greenville

Andrews, who has worked with the commission since 2006 as the assistant director, was promoted to executive director in October. She has an MBA from East Carolina University and previously worked with the N.C. Department of Labor.

MURCHISON “BO” BIGGS

secretary-treasurer | K.M. Biggs

Lumberton

Murchison, 66, is the fourth generation of his family to help lead K.M. Biggs, a holding company. The N.C. State University graduate and CPA is active in many statewide groups, including chairing the Rocky Mount-based Golden LEAF Foundation.

Employer’s distinction: Starting in the 1930s as a general store, the business transitioned to agriculture and then real estate property. Today, it manages commercial retail, office, industrial buildings and farmland statewide, including Lumberton’s Biggs Park Mall.

Best advice: My mom and dad always gave me some lead on the leash. They wanted me to be part of the family business, but they let me drift around and have some self-determination.

Proud family accomplishment: Community involvement and the survival of the family business

Favorite passions: Playing trombone with community bands and muscle cars

Person you admire: Raleigh retailer Art Pope for helping grow the state’s economy and serving as N.C. budget director while getting unfairly maligned by the media

Favorite recent book: On the Road in Trump’s America by Daniel Allott

Favorite music: Beach and big-band

BRENT CHRISTENSEN

president, CEO | Greensboro Chamber of Commerce

Greensboro

Christensen, 51, is a Duke University and University of South Florida graduate. He joined the chamber in 2015 after serving as executive director of the Mississippi Development Authority.

First job: Grocery bagger

Employer’s distinction: Our strength is rallying to the business community’s needs, making sure the economy is hitting on all cylinders.

Best advice: “You don’t park in front. We save the best spaces for our customers.” (my first boss)

Something surprising: I fell in love with North Carolina at summer camp in Black Mountain. After college, it took me almost 35 years to return.

CHRIS CHUNG

CEO | Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina

Raleigh

Chung, 44, is responsible for 60 professionals and an annual operating budget of more than $24 million. The Ohio State University graduate took on the CEO role in 2015 after leading a similar group in Missouri.

Employer’s distinction: EDPNC’s mission is to improve the economic well-being and quality of life for the 10.5 million people who call North Carolina home.

North Carolina’s challenge: Economic development is about creating the proverbial rising tide that lifts all boats. But too many communities — geographic or demographic — are missing out on the prosperity that other parts of the state are seeing in abundance.

Best advice: It’s from my dad: Be humble, and remember that good timing and luck are often just as attributable for what you accomplish as your own skill and hard work.

Proud family accomplishment: My wife and I welcomed our first child in late 2019.

Favorite passion: Learning the ukulele

Something surprising: I aspire to write for The Atlantic magazine, Saturday Night Live or The Onion

ADRIENNE COLE

president, CEO | Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce

Raleigh

A Meredith College and Appalachian State University graduate, Cole, 49, became the chamber’s first female CEO in 2017. It has been a year of growth for the region, which welcomed hundreds of jobs at startup Pendo and an Amazon distribution center.

First job: Horseback riding instructor

Employer’s distinction: We assemble diverse partners to tackle challenges and seize opportunities.

Best advice: You can fake sincerity, but you can’t fake showing up.

Proud family accomplishment: Our closeness

Person you admire: Kevin Howell, N.C. State University vice chancellor for external affairs, partnerships and economic development

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

KIT CRAMER

president, CEO | Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce

Asheville

Cramer, 60, is a University of Florida graduate who came to the mountains in 2010. She had previously worked for 16 years at the Charlotte Chamber and one year at the International Downtown Association. Her group was named 2019 Chamber of the Year by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.

First job: Dairy Queen

Employer’s distinction: Our catchphrase — “Together, we’re more” — embodies our collaborative spirit and the strength of the business community when its members unite.

North Carolina’s challenge: Expanding early childhood education and day care. Without it, we’re hurting parents, our future workforce and educators.

Proud family accomplishment: I’m thankful that we genuinely like each other.

Favorite passion: Creative pursuits such as painting

GEOFF DURHAM

president, CEO | Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce

Durham

The Randolph-Macon College graduate was named CEO in 2016. He had been the head of the Downtown Durham booster group for the three previous years after serving as director of economic development for the city of Fairfax, Va.

NATALIE ENGLISH

CEO | Wilmington Chamber of Commerce

Wilmington

English, 53, was named CEO in March 2017 after working at the Charlotte Chamber for 11 years. She has helped the region weather the effects of Hurricane Florence and the pandemic. She is an N.C. State University graduate.

North Carolina’s challenge: The increasing economic opportunity gap. We must identify pathways to prosperity for more of the state’s residents.

Best advice: Always be open to compromise. (my dad)

Proud family accomplishment: My son, Rick, who has a heart for people who need things

Favorite passion: Wine — collecting it, drinking it and learning how it’s made

Person you admire: My twin sister, who is kind-hearted and loving to almost everyone she meets

BRENDA DANIELS

manager of economic development | ElectriCities

Raleigh

Daniel joined ElectriCities — a not-forprofit service organization representing 70 public power communities in the Carolinas and Virginia — as an executive assistant in 1986. She was named to her current position 25 years ago.

CLARK DUNCAN

senior vice president for economic development | Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce

Asheville

A Wake Forest University graduate, Duncan, 49, oversees company retention, Venture Asheville, and other growth initiatives. Asheville’s largest new jobs announcement, a $650 million Pratt & Whitney plant that will employ 800, came last year.

Employer’s distinction: Our coalition is a 25-year partnership of the Asheville Chamber, Buncombe County Commission and Asheville City Council.

Best advice: “It’s not the deal of the cards, but how you play the hand.” A favorite saying of my grandfather, it keeps me focused and moving forward.

Favorite passion: Trail running

Favorite recent book: Deep Run Roots by Vivian Howard

Something surprising: I love singing, dancing and acting.

SCOTT HAMILTON

CEO | Golden LEAF Foundation

Rocky Mount

The UNC Greensboro graduate joined the foundation in 2019 after leading the Appalachian Regional Commission for five years.

Employer’s distinction: We develop economic opportunity in rural, economically distressed and tobaccodependent regions statewide.

North Carolina’s challenge: Ensuring that rural communities are not left behind as urban centers grow. North Carolina relies on them for products, labor and agriculture.

Best advice: “You can pretend to care, but you can’t pretend to be there.” Shared by a mentor, it has stayed with me, especially as technology has evolved.

Favorite music: Bluegrass and classic rock

President and CEO of the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce, on the POWER LIST 2021 recognition. Thank you for your leadership and commitment to the Durham community.

The Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce is the leading economic development entity advocating for the Durham business community. Through leadership and collaboration, we engage the Durham business community, elected officials and regional partners in the proactive business initiatives that foster Durham’s innovative business environment and creates opportunities for Durham and its residents to thrive and grow.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

HOWARD JOHNSON

CEO | Cary Chamber of Commerce

Cary

A UNC Chapel Hill graduate, Johnson has been CEO since 1986. During that period the city’s population has increased from 30,000 to 166,000. Big recent news includes a revitalized downtown and Epic Games’ new headquarters at the Cary Towne Center property.

CHRIS JOHNSON

executive director | Johnston County Economic Development

Smithfield

Johnson, 55, has been executive director since 2013. The East Carolina University graduate has set lofty goals for this year that include finding the county’s next big job creator in the life-sciences sector.

First job: Working on my grandmother’s family tobacco farm

Employer’s distinction: Johnston County’s leadership is composed of businesspeople, whose approach to economic development is “green tape and not red tape.” That probusiness philosophy has led to more than $3 billion in project investment over the past five years.

North Carolina’s challenge: Meeting the educational and broadband needs of the state’s rural regions

Proud family accomplishment: My wife and the small retail business that she has owned for more than 30 years

Favorite passion: Road cycling on 40- to 100- mile rides

Favorite recent book: The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels by Jon Meacham

Favorite music: Old school R&B — I’ve seen Earth, Wind & Fire perform live more than 20 times.

BOB JOYCE

senior director, business retention and expansion | Sanford Area Growth Alliance

Sanford

An East Carolina University graduate, Joyce was named 2019 North Carolina Economic Developer of the Year by the N.C. Economic Development Association. He was president of the Sanford Area Chamber of Commerce from 2007-15.

JANET LABAR

CEO | Charlotte Regional Business Alliance

Charlotte

Queen City leaders recruited LaBar in 2019 to lead the organization formed by the merger of the Charlotte Chamber and Charlotte Regional Partnership. A graduate of the University of West Florida and the University of Phoenix, she previously led the Portland, Ore., chamber.

STAN KELLY

CEO | Piedmont Triad Partnership Greensboro

Kelly, 63, is an N.C. State University graduate who was a veteran executive at Wachovia and Wells Fargo before joining the partnership in 2015.

First job: Bill collector and auto repossessor Best advice: Team-over-self culture at Wachovia that started with CEOs John Medlin and Bud Baker

Proud family accomplishment: My immediate and extended family are close, and we have vacationed with both for more than 40 years.

Favorite passion: Time at Wrightsville Beach

People you admire: My in-laws, who are awesome role models

Favorite book: Factfulness by Hans Rosling

Favorite music: Easy listening

SCOTT LEVITAN

CEO | Research Triangle Foundation of North Carolina

Durham

Levitan, 66, has degrees from Louisiana State University, Harvard University and the University of York. He’s been CEO of the Research Triangle Foundation since 2017. Biogen recently announced a $200 million factory and Longfellow Real Estate Partners unveiled a $150 million lab project at RTP.

First job: Sorting dump truck loads of silverware into matched sets

North Carolina’s challenge: North Carolina and the Triangle need to plan as a region instead of within the confines of municipal jurisdictions.

Favorite passion: Gardening

Something surprising: I was a competitive ballroom and Latin dancer.

SCOTT MILLAR

president | Catawba County Economic Development Corp.

Hickory

Millar, 60, was named EDC president in 1998. He led the county through a manufacturing recession and a pandemic. The EDC and Hickory City Council in January approved $2.5 million in incentives for manufacturer American Fuji Seal, which is creating 101 jobs.

First job: Butcher

Employer’s distinction: Helping our communities fight back from challenges. They are enjoying a development boom that is a result of good planning, good placement and resilience.

Decision you would change: The bad decisions I made early led to many challenges, which I later realized were gifts.

RYAN NANCE

director of economic development | North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives

Apex

The UNC Chapel Hill graduate, 40, joined the cooperatives’ group in 2019 after working for the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina.

First job: Textile worker

Favorite passion: Organizing excursions into North Carolina’s great outdoors

Person you admire: Tom White of N.C. State University’s Office of External Affairs

Favorite recent book: The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

MARK OWENS

president, CEO | Greater Winston-Salem Inc.

Winston-Salem

Owens, 35, has been CEO since 2018. The Presbyterian College graduate came to Winston-Salem in 2017 after leading the Greer, S.C., chamber for four years.

First job: Financial adviser

Employer’s distinction: We operate as a chamber of commerce that also leads economic development and business recruitment for Forsyth County.

North Carolina’s challenge: Office space needs post-pandemic

Proud family accomplishment: I am proud to be a husband to my wife, Melody, and father to our 3-year-old, Luke.

JOHN NELMS

senior economic development manager | Duke Energy

Raleigh

A staffer at Duke and predecessor Progress Energy since 2005, Nelms is a board member for the N.C. Rural Center and the N.C. Economic Development Association. He has a bachelor’s degree from N.C. State University and is a Campbell University MBA graduate.

CHRIS PLATÉ

executive director | Monroe-Union County Economic Development

Monroe

Since 1999, the Clemson University graduate has been an economic development leader in Union County involving several roles for the city of Monroe. Over that period, Union has been among the state’s fastest-growing regions and developed a major aerospace industry cluster.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

JULIE ROPER

economic development, local government manager | Dominion Energy North America

Mount Holly

Roper, 54, manages the natural gas supplier’s community engagement and communications with local government officials. She has a bachelor’s degree from Belmont Abbey College and a master’s degree in public administration from Appalachian State University.

Employer’s distinction: Our focus on innovation and sustainability

North Carolina’s challenge: Creating a highly skilled workforce that responds to the needs of expanding and relocating businesses that are considering North Carolina

Best advice: Dogs don’t chase parked cars. Just be you yourself and continue to move forward.

Favorite passion: Anything involving water

GARY SALAMIDO

CEO | NC Chamber

Cary

After working for the business advocacy group since 2011, Salamido, 58, was named president and CEO in 2019. A former director of government affairs for GlaxoSmithKline, he holds a pharmacy degree from Albany College of Pharmacy and an MBA from the University of Texas.

North Carolina’s challenge: The supply of talented workers for current jobs and the talent pipeline for future ones. North Carolina is exceptionally competitive for in-state expansions and extremely attractive for outof-state relocations. The key to sustaining its competitive advantage will be the availability of talent and a clear system for workforce training and continuing education.

People you admire: My middle school football coach and wrestling coach taught me to never quit, not to feel sorry for myself and to work hard to achieve what others thought I could not.

BEN TEAGUE

vice president, strategic development | Biltmore Farms

Fletcher

Teague, 42, is a University of Mississippi graduate and former executive director of the Asheville-Buncombe County Economic Development Coalition.

First job: Construction worker

Employer’s distinction: A commitment to making the state and region better

North Carolina’s challenge: Helping residents see a brighter future and driving career opportunities to make it a reality

Best advice: “Satisfaction with who you are and where you are is extraordinarily powerful.” (Phil Hanberry)

Proud family accomplishment: Watching our boys grow into Godly, compassionate men who dream big and pursue passions

Something surprising: I grew up in Mississippi.

NORRIS TOLSON

CEO, president | Carolinas Gateway Partnership

Pinetops

An N.C. State University graduate, Tolson, 81, served in the N.C. House and was secretary of the state’s Commerce, Transportation and Revenue departments. He was N.C. Biotechnology Center president from 2007 to 2014.

First job: Crop science technician

Employer’s distinction: We create better life opportunities through better jobs and a bigger tax base.

North Carolina’s challenge: Better education opportunities and more technology interconnection

Best advice: “Work hard; be honest and fair to everybody.” (my father and mother)

Favorite passion: Antiques

Person you admire: Gov. Jim Hunt, for his passion and integrity

ROBERT VAN GEONS

president | Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corp.

Fayetteville

Van Geons, 45, has helped the region add $225 million in investment and 2,000 jobs since joining the group in 2017. He previously worked in economic development jobs for Rowan and Stanly counties. He has a bachelor’s degree from Catawba College and a doctoral degree in international development from the University of Southern Mississippi.

Employer’s distinction: It brings together public, private and community partners to attract businesses and create jobs. It markets and promotes the community but does not own land, provide incentives or approve projects.

North Carolina’s challenge: As the state makes economic and technological gains, economic and digital divides among its residents and communities will widen. Proactive and aggressive action are needed.

Best advice: When my wife and I were just starting out, our car broke down in a rural area. Short on cash, we had it towed to the only repair shop within miles. The owner presented a bill that was less than 20% of the going rate. “There’s a fine line between staying in business and taking advantage of people,” he said. You can make smart business decisions, be profitable and grow, while helping others along the way.

Favorite passion: Working on my yet-to-bediscovered career as a songwriter and aging rock star

PATRICK WOODIE

president | NC Rural Center

Cary

Woodie, 56, has led the center through a transition, encouraging more community engagement. He has bachelor’s and law degrees from Wake Forest University.

North Carolina’s challenge: Rural communities have felt a disproportionate share of COVID’s burden. Many lack broadband internet access.

Best advice: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you make them feel.” (Dr. Maya Angelou)

Favorite recent book: The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s Great Migration by Isabel Wilkerson

STEVE YOST

president | North Carolina’s Southeast Whiteville

Yost, 54, has led the regional development group since 2009. He has degrees from Appalachian State University and UNC Chapel Hill.

First job: Strategic planning project coordinator

Employer’s distinction: In our 18 counties, we’ve helped generate announcements of 5,900 jobs, 43 company locations and $1.25 billion in capital since 2014.

North Carolina’s challenge: Economic stagnation and economic growth hurdles

Best advice: “When you commit to doing a job, do it well and finish it.” (my father)

Proud family accomplishment: One grandmother taught public school for 45 years and the other for 25 years. My mother taught for 25 years.

Favorite passions: Kayaking, reading, gardening and scouting

People you admire: My wife, Deborah Albritton, who gives everything 100%. My brother Thomas Yost Jr. has overcome enormous obstacles to lead a successful life.

Favorite recent book: Every Drop of Blood: The Second Inauguration of Abraham Lincoln by Edward Achorn

Favorite music: Blues, especially Joe Bonamassa

EDUCATION

North Carolina is nationally known for its public and private universities and 58-campus community college system, which are often cited as key factors in the state’s growth. Improving the state’s K-12 public schools and encouraging an additional 2 million residents to complete postsecondary degrees or credentials by 2030 are key initiatives supported by many business and political leaders.

UNC Chapel Hill

BREEDEN BLACKWELL

chairman | State Board of Community Colleges

Fayetteville

The retired school principal, 74, was elected chairman in 2019. It’s one of the nation’s largest systems with 58 campuses.

First job: History teacher

North Carolina’s challenge: Ensuring everyone has clean water and internet

Best advice: A handshake is a contract, and your word is your bond.

Proud family accomplishment: My son, who showed determination and found success in opening his business.

Favorite passions: Restoring my 1991 GMC truck and fishing

Person you admire: The Rev. Billy Graham

Favorite recent book: With All Due Respect by Nikki Haley

CONNIE LEDOUX BOOK

president | Elon University

Elon

Book became Elon’s first female president in 2018 after serving as provost of The Citadel. She previously spent 16 years at Elon as a professor and provost. She has a Ph.D. from the University of Georgia.

First job: Kmart cashier, service desk and cash cage

Employer’s distinction: Our studentsfirst culture. We believe in the power of relationships and hard work.

Best advice: Everything good accomplished comes from having a great team. They never get better than they are in the interview. If you have doubts, listen to your instinct.

KELLI BROWN

chancellor | Western Carolina University

Cullowhee

In 2019, Brown became the university’s 12th and first female chancellor. With a doctorate in education from Southern Illinois University, she has written on school and community partnerships. She was provost at Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville, Ga., before coming to North Carolina.

First job: Dental hygienist

Employer’s distinction: We thrive through community engagement, finding solutions and providing services to the region.

Favorite recent book: Anything written by John Grisham

Favorite music: Country western music

Something surprising: I was Miss Rodeo Ohio in 1981 and participated in Miss Rodeo America.

J. BRADLEY CREED

president | Campbell University Buies Creek

The Texas native was named president in 2015. He holds master’s of divinity and doctor of philosophy degrees from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Before joining Campbell, he was provost and a religion professor at Samford University in Birmingham, Ala., and the dean of Baylor University’s seminary.

ERIC DAVIS

chairman | State Board of Education

Charlotte

Davis has served on the board since 2015 and became its chairman in 2018. A U.S. Military Academy civil engineering graduate who works for Wells Fargo, he was an elected member of the CharlotteMecklenburg school board before being appointed to the state role.

KANDI DEITEMEYER

president | Central Piedmont Community College

Charlotte

As the college’s fourth president, Deitemeyer leads its six Mecklenburg County campuses. She was named president of the N.C. Association of Community College Presidents last year. She holds a doctoral degree in counselor education and educational leadership from the University of South Florida.

SHERI EVERTS

chancellor | Appalachian State University

Boone

Everts, who attended a one-room schoolhouse growing up in Nebraska, took her post in 2014. Since then ASU has added about 2,000 students to more than 20,000 and boosted the percentage of minority and lower-income students. She has a doctorate in education from the University of Nebraska.

EDUCATION

SHARON L. GABER

chancellor | UNC Charlotte

Charlotte

Gaber, 56, came to the state’s secondbiggest public university last July after leading the University of Toledo for five years and serving as provost at the University of Arkansas. Enrollment now tops 30,000 students. She has a doctorate in city and regional planning from Cornell University.

First job: My first job was at Del Taco. I was 14 years old and started working 20 hours a week throughout high school.

North Carolina’s challenge: One challenge that is foremost in my mind is the ability of all in our state to have access to an affordable, high-quality postsecondary education. We must continue innovating to accommodate a greater number of students and fully capitalize on the power of higher education as a vehicle for economic mobility. We’re providing access to help students move to the next opportunity; to be ready for jobs in virtually every sector and industry.

Proud family accomplishment: My three kids. They are all happy and healthy 20-somethings.

FRANK GILLIAM JR.

chancellor | UNC Greensboro

Greensboro

Gilliam became the university’s 11th chancellor in 2015. Since then, its enrollment has surpassed 20,000 and UNCG secured approval for a Millennial Campus designation to help expand its health and arts programs. He previously was dean of the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs. He has a doctorate in political science from the University of Iowa.

First job: Assistant professor at the University of Wisconsin

North Carolina’s challenge: Increasing access to higher education for firstgeneration and Pell Grant-eligible college students

Favorite passion: Playing guitar

Favorite recent book: Caste by Isabel Wilkerson

Something surprising: I love architecture.

KEVIN GUSKIEWICZ

chancellor | UNC Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill

Guskiewicz, 54, succeeded Carol Folt in 2019. A member of the university’s faculty since 1995, he had led the College of Arts and Sciences since 2016. He’s a Kenan Distinguished Professor of Exercise and Sport Science with a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia.

First job: Paper route

Best advice: “Listen often, ask questions to keep all constituencies engaged and learn something new every day,” (Jonathan Reckford, Habitat for Humanity CEO)

Something surprising: My hometown — Latrobe, Pa. — is the birthplace of Mr. Rogers, Arnold Palmer and professional football.

PETER HANS

president | UNC System

Chapel Hill

The former N.C. Community College System president, a former lobbyist and political aid, was selected to oversee the 17-campus system last year, succeeding William Roper. UNC has held tuition flat for five straight years, which Hans calls unprecedented. He is a UNC Chapel Hill graduate.

CECILIA HOLDEN

president, CEO | MyFutureNC

Raleigh

The Duke University MBA, 57, and former IBM staffer gained her current post in 2019. The nonprofit’s goal is for 2 million additional North Carolinians to earn a postsecondary degree or credential by 2030.

First job: Cindy’s restaurant in Whiteville Employer’s distinction: We partner with local and state governments, business and other strategic partners to advance educational attainment among North Carolinians.

North Carolina’s challenge: Fewer than half of North Carolinians aged 25 to 44 have a high-quality credential or postsecondary degree, which are required by two-thirds of jobs statewide.

Best advice: “If your teammates fail, you fail and the ability to self-evaluate is the most important skill you can have.” (Bill Foster, IBM vice president)

Proud family accomplishment: My parents valued education and encouraged my dreams, centering me in the church and grounding me in my faith.

Something surprising: I attended the O.J. Simpson trial. I owned a Harley-Davidson.

JENNIFER HAYGOOD

senior vice president of finance | UNC System

Chapel Hill

After a dozen years with the N.C. Community College System, Haygood switched to her current position last year. With degrees from Rice and Duke universities, she is responsible for the financial affairs of the multibillion dollar system, which has annual expenditures of nearly $5 billion.

HAROLD MARTIN

chancellor | N.C. Agricultural and Technical State University

Greensboro

Martin has led the largest U.S. historically Black university since 2009, with enrollment of nearly 13,000. No other school graduates more Black engineers. He led Winston-Salem State University from 2000-06 after previously working at A&T for 10 years as a professor and administrator.

VINCENT PRICE

president | Duke University Durham

The former provost at the University of Pennsylvania came to North Carolina in 2017. Price, 63, signed a new five-year contract earlier this year. An expert on public opinion, he has master’s and doctoral degrees from Stanford University.

Employer’s distinction: We’re one of America’s leading research universities. We are experimenting, innovating and making strategic adjustments that position us well for real leadership.

North Carolina’s challenge: Ensuring all residents benefit from technological innovation, job growth, social engagement, transportation and communications

Best advice: “You should marry Annette.”

Favorite passion: Walking my dogs, Scout and Cricket

Something surprising: I seriously considered a career in television.

CAROL QUILLEN

president | Davidson College

Davidson

She’s led the elite undergraduate school since 2011 as its first female president. She oversaw creation of an entrepreneurship center and shifted athletics to the Atlantic 10 Conference. Last year, the Ph.D. in European history from Princeton University apologized for the college’s complicity in supporting slavery.

NIDO QUBEIN

president | High Point University High Point

Born in Lebanon, Qubein, 72, spoke limited English when he came to the United States as a teen. He earned a bachelor’s degree from High Point University and an MBA from UNC Greensboro, After a successful business career, he took charge at High Point in 2005. Enrollment has since soared by more than 200% with dozens of new programs and 90 buildings. He signed a 10-year contract in 2019.

Employer’s distinction: High Point University’s practical, principled approach is attracting students from 50 states and almost 40 countries. It fosters the life skills and leadership development needed in an ever-changing world. Within six months of earning their degree, 97% of our graduates begin careers or enter graduate school. We proudly say that we are a God, family and country school.

Proud family accomplishment: My family members are healthy and successful.

Favorite passions: Engaging with students and helping the region attract businesses

Person you admire: My mother, who had a fourth-grade education, blessed me with an ample supply of common sense.

Something surprising: I get up at 4 a.m. daily to pray, read trade journals and local newspapers, and think about the university’s next big thing.

SCOTT RALLS

president | Wake Technical Community College

Raleigh

A leader of the N.C. Community College System from 2008-15, Ralls, 56, left for a job in Virginia, then returned to the state’s largest two-year school in 2019. He has a doctorate in psychology from the University of Maryland.

First job: Dishwasher

North Carolina’s challenge: Expanding economic opportunity

Best advice: “Always surround yourself with people smarter than you.” (Terry Sanford)

Proud family accomplishment: Being associated with the N.C. Community College System

Favorite recent book: Caste by Isabel Wilkerson

Something surprising: I’ve visited every North Carolina county.

RANDY RAMSEY

chairman | UNC System Board of Governors

Beaufort

Ramsey, 58, succeeded Harry Smith as the board’s leader in 2019. He is president of Jarrett Bay Boatworks and a principal of Bluewater Yacht Sales. He is a former trustee at N.C. State University, where he and his wife, Tiffany, became the largest donors to the athletics endowment in 2016.

Employer’s distinction: As chairman, I work toward increasing student success and lowering student debt, ensuring the system is efficient and delivering the finest education.

North Carolina’s challenge: Creating affordable education and workforce training

Best advice: My dad said you can accomplish anything if you are willing to work hard enough.

Favorite passion: Offshore fishing

MEBANE RASH

CEO | EducationNC

Deep Gap

Rash, 52, and her staff share information about the state’s education trends in an online publication. She is a UNC School of Law graduate and formerly led the N.C. Center for Public Policy Research.

First job: Kid-to-Kid columnist for The Charlotte Observer

North Carolina’s challenge: Overcoming the echo chambers that we build

Best advice: “1. Numbers are one measure; what’s the best measure of our new work? 2. What did I fail at this week? 3. Where are we making a difference? 4. Serious work should never be done by humorless people? 5. Accuracy above all. 6. No article should be started without reflecting on Pascal telling his friend: I would have written you a shorter letter if I had more time.” (Rolfe Neill, former Charlotte Observer publisher)

Person you admire: Donnell Cannon, North Carolina’s youngest principal

Decision you would change: I moved to the mountains at the pandemic’s start. I wish I did it sooner.

Favorite recent book: Everyday Holiness: The Jewish Spiritual Path of Mussar by Alan Morinis

Favorite music: My son’s band, yesdude!, Fleetwood Mac, Mandolin Orange and Kate Rhudy

JENNA ROBINSON

president | James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal

Cary

Robinson, 41, joined the higher education research group in 2007. She has a master’s degree and Ph.D. from UNC Chapel Hill. The Martin Center was established in 2003 with support from the Pope family.

First job: Research intern at John Locke Foundation

Favorite passion: Cooking Italian food

Favorite recent book: The Assault on American Excellence by Anthony Kronman

PHILIP ROGERS

chancellor | East Carolina University

Greenville

With a University of Pennsylvania Ph.D., he started in March. The son of a Greenville pastor, Rogers was chief of staff at ECU before working at the American Council on Education for seven years. He also has degrees from Wake Forest University and UNC Chapel Hill.

JOSE “ZITO” SARTARELLI

chancellor | UNC Wilmington

Wilmington

The Brazil native with a Michigan State Ph.D. worked for Johnson & Johnson before becoming dean of West Virginia University’s business school in 2010. UNC hired Sartarelli, 71, to lead the Wilmington campus in 2015, and he’s overseen record enrollment and philanthropy.

First job: Market researcher

Employer’s distinction: The quality of our faculty, students and programs

North Carolina’s challenge: Restoring economic activity post-pandemic and supporting a growing population

Favorite passions: Traveling, tennis and reading

Favorite recent books: Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher biographies

Favorite music: Rock ‘n’ roll, Brazilian and Italian

RICHARD STEVENS

chairman, board of trustees | UNC Chapel Hill

Cary

The former Wake County manager has been the board leader since 2019. He rejoined the board in 2017 after serving from 1995-2003. He was a state senator from 2003 to 2012 and holds bachelor’s, master’s and law degrees from the Chapel Hill school.

THOMAS STITH III

president | N.C. Community College System

Raleigh

A former U.S. Small Business Administration district director, Stith was named system president in January. Prior jobs included serving as chief of staff to Gov. Pat McCrory. He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from N.C. Central University.

A. HOPE WILLIAMS

president | North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities

Raleigh

With degrees from Duke and N.C. State universities and UNC Chapel Hill, she’s had her post since 1986.

Employer’s distinction: We support 36 private nonprofit colleges and universities by seeking student scholarships, hosting professional development programs and collaborating with businesses.

North Carolina’s challenge: Helping students understand available financial aid

Favorite passion: Travel

RANDY WOODSON

chancellor | N.C. State University

Raleigh

The state’s largest university has been led since 2010 by the plant biologist and former Purdue University provost. It has more than 34,000 students and an annual budget of $1.4 billion. Woodson, 63, has a Ph.D. from Cornell University.

First jobs: Paper delivery, floor sweeper and greenhouse worker

North Carolina’s challenge: Staying competitive globally for growth industries

Best advice: “You’ve got two ears and one mouth. Use them in that proportion. Listen more than you talk.” (my dad)

Favorite recent book: Abe: Abraham Lincoln in His Times by David S. Reynolds Favorite music: Bluegrass and blues

ENERGY

The shift from fossil fuels to alternative sources such as wind and solar is a front-page issue in North Carolina. The state is home to Duke Energy, one of the largest U.S. electric utilities, and it has ranked with California and Texas for having the most solar energy capacity nationally for several years. Key industry leaders are cited in this section.

JOE BRANNAN

CEO | North Carolina Electric Membership Corp.

Morrisville

A Pennsylvania State University and Lehigh University graduate, Brannan, 57, was named the cooperative’s CEO in 2012. Its 26 members provide energy to 2.5 million people in 93 North Carolina counties.

Employer’s distinction: We have a unique partnership, helping people who have a vested interest in us.

North Carolina’s challenge: Expanding opportunities in traditional and recruited industries and investing in education and workforce development

Best advice: Treat people with respect and integrity.

Favorite recent books: The Greatest Trade Ever by Gregory Zuckerman and How to Avoid a Climate Disaster by Bill Gates

SCOTT CARLTON

president | Tokai Carbon GE

Charlotte

Carlton, who holds an MBA from UNC Charlotte, was North America president for SGL Carbon for more than a decade before taking his post in 2017. The graphite-electrode manufacturer announced a $25 million investment in a Fulton, Ky., plant in January.

BEN CATT

CEO | Pine Gate Renewables

Asheville

An Indiana University graduate, Catt, 41, oversees the 200-employee solar company where he has closed more than $2 billion in financing. It was named to Inc.’s 2020 Best in Business list.

First job: Mowing lawns at age 10

Employer’s distinction: We’re independently owned, unlike many of our competitors, whose innovation can be stifled by large parent companies. Our meritocracy keeps us up front in a rapidly changing market.

North Carolina’s challenge: We are in danger of falling behind. Collaboration between legislators, utilities and communities is needed to tackle complicated issues.

DAVID DOCTOR

CEO | E4 Carolinas

Charlotte

Doctor was named CEO of the trade association, which fosters collaboration among Carolina energy companies, in 2014. The University of Detroit Mercy graduate had previously co-founded or led 16 startups, many in the energy sector. Their combined sales exceeded $12 billion.

JAY FAISON

founder | ClearPath

Charlotte

Faison’s nonprofit reduces emissions from energy and industrial sectors through policy, research and innovation. The UNC Chapel Hill and University of Virginia Darden School of Business graduate was named EY Entrepreneur of the Year in 2013 for his leadership of SnapAV, which he sold to pursue philanthropy.

LYNN GOOD

CEO | Duke Energy

Charlotte

Good, 61, was promoted to CEO from chief financial officer in 2013. A former partner at Arthur Andersen, she joined Duke predecessor Cinergy in 2002. The Ohio native won Edison Electric Institute’s Distinguished Leadership Award in January. She holds bachelor’s degrees in systems analysis and accounting from Miami University in Ohio. Duke Energy serves 7.7 million customers.

First job: Helping with record keeping and inventory at my aunt’s women’s clothing store

Favorite recent book: The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson

Favorite music: Alternative and indie rock (My twenty-something sons update the playlist.)

MICHAEL GRAY

country holding officer, U.S. | ABB Cary

With a background in global taxation, mergers and acquisitions, global financing arrangements and project management, Gray handles the overall financial model of ABB, a Switzerland-based multinational that focuses on power infrastructure, the electrical grid and transportation. He is a University of Memphis graduate.

KENNY HABUL

CEO | SunEnergy1

Mooresville

A native of Australia and professional race car driver, Habul has worked in solar energy since 1996. He started SunEnergy1 in 2010, moving it to North Carolina because of available tax breaks. The Bond University graduate’s company mainly builds utility-scale solar projects that it owns and operates.

ENERGY

CARSON HARKRADER

CEO | Carolina Solar Energy

Hillsborough

Harkrader, 44, has forged solar partnerships and projects in Kentucky and North Carolina since succeeding her father as CEO in 2018. She has degrees from Brown and New York universities. Her first job was office manager at a biogas and waste-to-energy startup in Australia.

Employer’s distinction: We’re a small company that’s had outsized results with projects where we add a unique advantage.

North Carolina’s challenge: I am very concerned that people in North Carolina don’t understand that large-scale renewable energy is here and affordable. Instead of it being implemented at scale, policies continue to call for power generation with fossil fuels.

Best advice: Check in frequently with your employees.

JULIE JANSON

executive vice president; CEO, Duke Energy Carolinas | Duke Energy

Charlotte

Janson, 55, oversees regulatory and legislative affairs, the strategic direction, and financial performance of Duke Energy’s utilities in the Carolinas. The University of Cincinnati College of Law graduate also is a foundation trustee, helping award $30 million in grants annually.

First job: Lifeguard

Best advice: Play chess, not checkers.

Person you admire: My mother. Born of a different generation and without formal education beyond high school, she encouraged me to be articulate, driven and educated.

Favorite recent book: Educated by Tara Westover

Favorite music: What my adult daughters are listening to

DHIAA JAMIL

chief operating officer | Duke Energy Charlotte

Jamil, 64, has 40 years of experience in the energy industry and previously was Duke’s chief nuclear officer. An electrical engineering graduate of UNC Charlotte, he helped develop the school’s Energy Production Infrastructure Center, a workforce-development tool for the energy industry.

First job: Assistant electrical engineer at Duke

Best advice: A career is like a tree. How high it goes depends on the depth of its roots. (a former supervisor)

Person you admire: The late Mike Tuckman, a former Duke Energy chief nuclear officer, for his honest communications and visible care for employees

Favorite music: 1970s

ROY JONES

CEO | ElectriCities of North Carolina

Raleigh

Jones, 62, has worked at the not-for-profit group of municipal utilities since 2009, first as senior vice president of planning. He became CEO in 2015. A La Salle University graduate, he supports public power communities.

First job: Washing school buses

North Carolina’s challenge: Providing reliable and affordable electricity to homes and businesses throughout this period of uncertainty

Best advice: Always do the right thing, even if it’s unpopular.

Person you admire: Retired High Point City Manager Strib Boynton, who helps communities nationwide deal with disasters as a member of Samaritan’s Purse

MARIA KINGERY

chief impact officer | Southern Energy Management; leadership team coach | 360Rocks

Raleigh

Kingery, 53, is board chairwoman of the Amicus Solar Cooperative, which represents 58 independent solar companies nationwide, and a member of the Duke University Environmental Leadership Program. The N.C. State University graduate has been the principal of 360Rocks, which develops entrepreneurial leadership and sustainable operations, since 2015.

First job: Paper route

North Carolina’s challenge: Our divisive political landscape, which has permeated the fabric of our communities. It breeds mistrust that makes it difficult to address common challenges, such as hunger, education, health care and clean energy.

Proud family accomplishments: My son and my husband and life-partner, Bob. It’s been the joy of my life to see them learn and thrive through good and bad times.

A decision you would change: In 2011, we tried to retain all our employees even though the business couldn’t support them. In hindsight, I would have focused on the greater good, making deeper cuts sooner and in line with what the business needed.

Favorite recent book: Unleashed by Frances Frei

Favorite music: Improvisational rock

ERIK LENSCH

CEO | Leyline Renewable Capital Durham

The former CEO of Entropy Solar Integrators, Lensch started Leyline to provide capital for promising renewable energy ventures in 2016. A Radford University graduate, he was named the N.C. Sustainable Energy Association’s 2020 Clean Energy Innovator of the Year.

ENERGY

CHARLOTTE MITCHELL

chairwoman | N.C. Utilities Commission

Raleigh

Mitchell leads the group that regulates public utilities. Gov. Roy Cooper appointed her in July 2017 to a term through June 2023. She has a bachelor’s degree from UNC Chapel Hill and a law degree from Duke University. She previously was in private practice.

JAYSON WALLER

CEO | Powerhome Solar Huntersville

The 2019 EY Entrepreneur of the Year Southeast, Waller, 41, has grown his company to 1,700 employees since 2014. Revenue doubled in 2020. Customers include the Carolina Panthers and four other pro football franchises.

First job: Video store clerk

Employer’s distinction: Helping homeowners generate energy in an environmentally friendly way while creating jobs

Proud family accomplishment: My kids — Hannah, McKenzie, Londyn and Christian

Favorite passion: True Underdog, my podcast for entrepreneurs

Person you admire: Tony Robbins. We’re entrepreneurs without college degrees and motivational speakers.

Something surprising: I play water volleyball.

JAY RADCLIFFE

president | Renu Energy Solutions

Charlotte

A University of Mississippi graduate, Radcliffe has been president of the solarenergy company since 2010. It struggled at the pandemic’s start, but the Paycheck Protection Program and emergency grants stabilized the business. Revenue in 2020 ended 20% higher than the previous year.

SHAUN RANDALL

vice president, gas operations | Dominion Energy North Carolina

Gastonia

In 1995, Randall started with PSNC Energy, which was purchased by Dominion Energy in 2019. The Clemson University graduate is responsible for customer service, sales and marketing, system operations, maintenance and construction, and project engineering.

JAY WILEMAN

president | GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy

Wilmington

Hired by GE in 1994, Wileman was named president in 2015. He also oversees production of advanced reactors and nuclear services. He is a graduate of Mississippi State University and the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

MARKUS WILHELM

co-founder, CEO | Strata Solar Durham

After 25 years in the media industry, Wilhelm grew his green-construction business into Strata Solar in 2009. It has developed turnkey solar-energy projects for IKEA, Bayer and others. The University of Passau graduate served on the Energy Policy Council of North Carolina.

FINANCE & INSURANCE

Long known for its robust commercial banking industry, North Carolina has become a magnet for global financial powers. The state’s relatively low costs and talent pool have prompted Dimensional Fund Advisors, Fidelity, TIAA, Vanguard and others to add tech or marketing centers. Still, locally owned financial institutions are showing resiliency and growth.

ADAM ABRAM

non-executive chair | James River Group

Raleigh

The Harvard graduate founded several N.C. financial and real estate companies, including insurer Front Royal, Piedmont Community Bank Holdings, which became Yadkin Financial, and developer Adaron Group. James River is an insurance holding company.

ANITA HUGHES BACHMANN

CEO | UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of North Carolina

Greensboro

A leader of the largest U.S. health insurer, Bachmann, 60, also chairs the Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro and is on the boards of the Greensboro Chamber and NCWorks Commission. She has a master’s degree in health services administration from the Medical University of South Carolina.

North Carolina’s challenge: We have a considerable opportunity to make dramatic improvements. North Carolina ranks 41st in food insecurity and 30th in maternal mortality.

Favorite recent book: Think Again by Adam Grant. It is the perfect book for these times.

Something surprising: I sang for McDonald’s commercials.

CATHY BESSANT

chief operations and technology officer | Bank of America

Charlotte

Bessant, 60, leads a team of 95,000 people. American Banker consistently names the University of Michigan graduate one of the most powerful women in banking.

First job: McDonald’s at age 16. My store’s motto: “If you’ve got time to lean, you’ve got time to clean.” I think of that almost every day.

Employer’s distinction: The company believes strongly that our role is to matter in the communities where we serve and to be a positive force for change, even when it’s controversial. In 1998, we were the first financial-services company to offer comprehensive domestic partner benefits; and most recently in 2020, we announced a $1 billion, four-year initiative to increase our commitment to community health services.

North Carolina’s challenge: The polarization of political and social views. Failure to compromise impacts everything from education to transportation to health care.

Something surprising: I’m terribly afraid of cliffs and edges, yet I summited the world’s tallest free-standing mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, a couple of years ago.

JEFF BROWN

CEO | Ally Financial

Charlotte

The former Bank of America treasurer joined Ally in 2009 and became CEO in 2015, helping its transition to digital financial services. Brown, 48, is a Clemson University graduate and has an executive MBA from Queens University of Charlotte, where he chairs the board of trustees.

Employer’s distinction: Every teammate plays a role in nurturing Ally’s culture.

Best advice: “Do what you say you will do.” (my dad)

People you most admire: Rick Hendrick and Hugh McColl

Favorite recent book: Essentialism by Greg McKeown. The disciplined pursuit of less is an important mantra I now practice.

RICHARD BRYANT

CEO | Capital Investment Companies

Raleigh

The Gastonia native, 61, co-founded the financial-services firm in 1984, soon after graduating from N.C. State University. Brokers affiliated with Capital manage about $8 billion in client assets.

North Carolina’s challenge: Persistent population growth and gnawing political agendas

Best advice: Start a business with no people management, no receivables and no inventory.

Proud family accomplishment: My sons conquered overwhelming obstacles to become fine young men.

Favorite passions: Wife, music, cars, food and piddling

Person you admire: Queen Elizabeth II

Something surprising: I am shy with a touch of introversion.

LARRY CARROLL

chairman emeritus | Carroll Financial Associates

Charlotte

The Austin Peay University graduate, 69, formed a firm that manages $4 billion in client assets.

Proud family accomplishment: Working alongside my son, Kris, for over 20 years

Favorite recent book: Kaleidoscope by Chip Bell

Something surprising: In 1977, I won a regional pocket billiards tournament. And I haven’t played since.

FINANCE & INSURANCE

DOUG CHITTENDEN

executive vice president, head of client relationships | TIAA

Charlotte

A TIAA employee for more than 30 years, Chittenden leads the unit that serves more than 15,000 universities and other retirement-plan sponsors. Last year, the Rutgers University graduate was named to the executive committee reporting to the company’s CEO.

RON DAY

founding director, president, CEO | First Carolina Financial Services

Raleigh

Day, 55, led an investor group that acquired the bank in 2012. The UNC Chapel Hill graduate moved the $1 billion bank’s headquarters from Rocky Mount and raised more than $30 million.

First job: Commercial banking credit analyst

Employer’s distinction: Entrepreneurial in a highly regulated industry

Best advice: “Make your plan.” (Kevin Shannon, my first boss)

Proud family accomplishment: Blessed to have the best wife, Lori, children, Elaine and Alex, parents and brothers in the world

Favorite passions: Family and golf

Favorite recent book: Is This Anything? by Jerry Seinfeld

CAROL DECKBAR

executive vice president, institutional investment and endowment services | TIAA

Charlotte

Deckbar was named to her current role in 2016 after leading the company’s asset management division. The Elon University graduate previously worked for Bank of America, Regions Bank and Evergreen Investments in Charlotte.

PORTER DURHAM

managing director | Global Endowment Management

Charlotte

Durham and his team manage more than $8 billion in investments for mostly nonprofit and educational clients, including UNC Charlotte and RTI International. The Duke University School of Law graduate joined the company in 2007 after working for the Duke Endowment.

ROB EDWARDS

co-founder, partner | Ridgemont Equity Partners

Charlotte

The private-equity firm has invested more than $5 billion in middle-market companies since its founding in 1993. The graduate of UNC Chapel Hill and Harvard Business School previously worked for Bank of America and McKinsey & Co.

JIM DUNN

chief investment officer, CEO | Verger Capital

Winston-Salem

The former chief investment officer at Wake Forest University founded the company in 2014 and manages $1.9 billion in assets for nonprofit and endowment clients. Dunn, 48, played varsity soccer for Villanova University. He previously worked at Wilshire Capital Management in California.

First job: All sorts of tasks for a local firm on the Philadelphia Stock Exchange

Employer’s distinction: Building a purpose-driven culture in a numbers-driven world, which guides every aspect of our organization

Favorite recent book: Run to the Roar: Coaching to Overcome Fear by Paul Assaiante, the winningest coach in college sports history

LEE FITE

Carolinas regional president | Fifth Third Bank

Charlotte

Fite, 49, joined the Cincinnati-based bank in 2007 after working for RBC and First Union. He’s overseen the bank’s Carolinas and Virginia markets since 2018. Fite has a bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University and a Wake Forest University MBA.

First job: Cutting grass

North Carolina’s challenge: We need to be a leader in education, workforce, secondchance opportunities and inclusion.

Best advice: My father taught me that I could control two things that make a difference: work ethic and caring for others.

CHARLES FREDERICK

N.C. market president | TD Bank Asheville

Frederick has more than 35 years of local banking experience in his hometown. The Campbell University graduate has led TD Bank’s regional efforts since 2010. His great-great-grandfather was the president of Hendersonville’s First National Bank in the 1920s.

MIKE FRENO

president, chairman, CEO | Barings

Charlotte

The Wake Forest University graduate was tapped to lead the $354 billion financialservices company in 2020, succeeding longtime leader Tom Finke. Freno joined the MassMutual Insurance-owned company in 2005 and became president in February 2020.

FINANCE & INSURANCE

CHARLES GRIGG

managing partner | Carousel Capital

Charlotte

The private equity group was started in 1996 by Erskine Bowles and Nelson Schwab to invest in Southeastern middlemarket companies. Grigg joined the firm in 1997 after stints at Orion Partners and Smith Barney. He has a bachelor’s degree from Yale University and a Wharton School MBA.

PETER GWALTNEY

president, CEO | North Carolina Bankers Association

Raleigh

Gwaltney has been the chief advocate for the state’s community banks since 2015, succeeding longtime leader Thad Woodard. The Louisiana State University graduate worked for the Bayou State’s banking association for 16 years before heading to Raleigh.

TODD HALL

president, CEO | Truliant Federal Credit Union

Winston-Salem

The Wake Forest University MBA graduate succeeded credit union leader Marc Schaefer in 2020. He joined Truliant in 2012 as chief operating officer. Truliant has $2.7 billion in assets and 250,000 members.

Employer’s distinction: We improve lives through personal finance.

North Carolina’s challenge: Overcoming the detrimental impact of virtual learning on our K-12 students

Proud family accomplishment: Our perseverance. Life constantly challenges every family, and ours is no different. Those issues require empathy, resilience and sacrifice. The demonstration and evolution of these traits created an undeniable bond between us.

RAMSEY HAMADI

CEO | Triad Business Bank

Greensboro

The Marine Corps veteran opened one of the state’s first new banks in a decade in March 2020 and achieved assets of $221 million by Dec. 31. He previously worked for NewBridge Bank. He has an MBA from Maryville University of St. Louis.

JIM HANSEN

regional president, Eastern Carolinas | PNC

Raleigh

The N.C. State University and UNC Chapel Hill MBA graduate, 42, oversees the Pittsburgh-based bank’s operations from the Triangle to the coast. He chaired the Raleigh chamber and Research Triangle Regional Partnership.

First job: Soccer ref at age 12

Employer’s distinction: PNC is a large financial institution and a Main Street bank that understands each community is different.

North Carolina’s challenge: Improving access to high-quality pre-K education. We can’t let our children fall behind.

Best advice: I lost my father when I was 21. He said facing adversity makes a person. Working on a solution makes a thoughtful person. Developing a solution makes a leader.

FRANK HOLDING JR.

CEO | First Citizens Bancshares

Raleigh

He is a third-generation leader of the largest U.S. family-owned bank, which dates to 1898. The UNC Chapel Hill and Wharton MBA graduate is overseeing the $2 billion acquisition of CIT Group, creating a top 20 U.S. bank with $100 billion in assets. He is a former chairman of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina.

BOB INGRAM

general partner | Hatteras Venture Partners

Durham

Ingram is an iconic North Carolina leader who helps develop life-sciences companies through the private-equity firm. The Eastern Illinois University graduate retired as CEO of Glaxo Wellcome in 2003. He’s advised multiple presidents on health and cancer policy.

STEVE JONES

CEO | Dogwood State Bank

Raleigh

The East Carolina University graduate, 52, helped an investor group take over a Morehead City bank’s charter in 2017, then recapitalized and rebranded it with plans to go statewide. Jones previously had senior posts at RBC and Yadkin Bank. He formerly chaired ECU’s board.

First job: Waiter

Employer’s distinction: Dogwood is a blend of unique individuals committed to great customer experience for small businesses.

Best advice: “Relationships are built between transactions.” (Dogwood Executive Chairman Scott Custer)

Favorite passions: Playing golf and family time

Something surprising: I do yoga. I’m not very good at it.

DOUG LEBDA

founder, chairman, CEO | LendingTree

Charlotte

The University of Virginia graduate founded the online marketplace in 1996. LendingTree’s market value is about $3 billion. Lebda, who owned 16.5% as of April 2020, received compensation of $110 million between 2017 and 2019.

MICHAEL LORD

president, CEO | State Employees Credit Union

Raleigh

Lord, 68, succeeded longtime leader Jim Blaine in 2016 after serving as chief financial officer. The N.C. State University graduate is retiring in August.

Employer’s distinction: SECU has more than 2.5 million members, 271 branch offices and 1,100 ATMs.

North Carolina’s challenge: Recovery from the impacts of the pandemic

Best advice: Colin Powell’s rules of leadership:

1. It ain’t as bad as you think.

2. It can be done.

3. Be careful what you choose. You may get it.

4. Check small things.

5. Share credit.

6. Remain calm. Be kind.

KELLY KING

chairman, CEO | Truist Financial

Charlotte

Over nearly 50 years, the Wake County native helped guide BB&T to become one of the largest banks in the country. The East Carolina University graduate led the merger in 2019 with SunTrust that created the nation’s sixth-largest bank. He succeeded John Allison as BB&T’s CEO in 2009 and is stepping down in September. King, 72, has been a key civic leader, chairing the NC Rural Center and many other Triad and statewide groups.

First job: I’ve spent my entire 49-year career with Truist. Since my first position as a BB&T commercial lending officer, I’ve held various roles in commercial and retail banking, operations, insurance, corporate financial services, investment services and capital markets. I completed the BB&T Management Development Program in 1972.

Employer’s distinction: We’re creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where our teammates are able to align their personal purpose with our company’s purpose to inspire and build better lives and communities. We boldly believe in the power of what we can achieve together.

Person you admire: Viktor E. Frankl, who wrote Man’s Search for Meaning, one of my five favorite books. He was an Austrian neurologist, psychiatrist, philosopher, author and Holocaust survivor. His mother, father, brother and pregnant wife were all killed in the camps. In his book, Frankl shares that, even at Auschwitz, some prisoners were able to discover meaning in their lives — if only in helping one another through the day — and that those discoveries were what gave them the will and strength to endure. He says that if you know your why, you can bear almost any how. I have found that knowing my why is both energizing and fills me with the passion to face almost any challenge.

Something surprising: In college, one of my side jobs was selling Filter Queen vacuum cleaners door to door. At the time, these vacuum cleaners were high-quality and a fairly significant purchase for people in eastern North Carolina. This helped me learn all kinds of lessons about overcoming challenges. My favorite memory of this difficult job is when the husband of a customer called me the day after to congratulate me on successfully selling the vacuum cleaner to his wife. It turns out they had no carpet in their house.

FINANCE & INSURANCE

MARY MACK

senior executive vice president, consumer banking | Wells Fargo

Fort Mill, S.C.

The Davidson College graduate, 58, is among the bank’s highest-ranking executives in North Carolina, where it employs more than 35,000. She is CEO of consumer and small business banking.

Favorite passion: Mary Warner Mack Dog Park in Fort Mill, S.C., which honors her late daughter, who died of meningitis

Proud family accomplishment: My daughters, an ICU nurse for COVID-19 patients in Charlotte and a fourth-grade public school teacher in Baltimore. I couldn’t be prouder of the sacrifices they’re making for all of us.

Favorite recent book: Untamed by Glennon Doyle

CHIP MAHAN

founder, chairman, CEO | Live Oak Bancshares

Wilmington

Mahan founded the bank to focus on Small Business Administration lending in 2008 after a three-decade career in banking and financial technology. The Washington & Lee University graduate also is a co-founder of software vendor nCino and the Canapi Ventures investment firm.

RICK MANSKE

CEO | Parsec Financial

Weaverville

The Western Michigan University graduate, 51, runs an investment adviser based in downtown Asheville. His team oversees nearly $3.5 billion in assets under management.

Employer’s distinction: Parsec celebrated 40 years in business this past year and is well-positioned for further growth.

North Carolina’s challenge: The quality of civil discourse concerns me. Solutions are most likely found in compromise and collaboration, not a winner-take-all mentality.

Person you admire: Bill Gates for his philanthropy, communications skills and modesty

Favorite recent book: The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson

AARON MARCUS

head of global human resources | Dimensional Fund Advisors

Charlotte

Marcus is a top executive at the Austin, Texas-based money manager, which opened its East Coast headquarters in Charlotte in 2019. The Brown University graduate joined DFA in 2008 after 14 years at Goldman Sachs. DFA advises on about $600 billion.

REID MARKS

Triad region president | Pinnacle Financial

Greensboro

Marks worked for Bank of America for 26 years then Regions Bank for five before joining Pinnacle predecessor BNC Bancorp in 2009. The Wake Forest University graduate leads the Nashvillebased bank’s Triad market, which has about 400 employees.

MIKE MAYER

president | First Bancorp

Southern Pines

Mayer, 61, has helped the Southern Pines bank grow to more than $7 billion in assets since joining in 2014. The Clemson University graduate led two other community banks after more than two decades at Bank of America.

First job: Credit analyst at NCNB

North Carolina’s challenge: Disparity in our communities. Two counties drive half of our state’s growth. Half of our counties have no growth.

Best advice: From my son while golfing when he was 9. We came to a hole with a lake between tee and green. I was coaching him on how to avoid hitting his ball into the water. He said, “Dad, I’m aiming my shot at the flag. Why are you talking about the lake?” It’s important to focus on success, not failure.

Proud family accomplishment: My two children are hard-working young adults with strong values cemented in their faith and dedicated to serving others. I am blessed.

Favorite passion: Walking on the beach or a golf course

Person you admire: Wendy Hales, First Bank’s executive vice president. She reminds me to never fear the storm, but instead, be the storm.

Decision you would change: Ones that kept me away from important moments in my children’s lives. All I remember is what I missed, not what I did.

Favorite recent book: Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

Something surprising: I make candles. It’s the only thing I do that makes the world smell better.

BRIAN MCCARTHY

global head, Investment Management Group Operational

Risk | Vanguard Group

Charlotte

McCarthy, 49, has worked his way up to be a senior leader at the giant money manager, which is based in Malvern, Pa. The Boston College graduate earned an MBA from St. Joseph’s University.

Employer’s distinction: We are 100% focused on our clients and giving investors the best chance for investment success.

Best advice: “Don’t spend all your time trying to make the right decision. Invest in making the decision right.” (my dad)

Favorite passion: Coaching lacrosse

Favorite recent book: Lead … for God’s Sake! by Todd Gongwer

ED MCMAHAN

managing partner | Falfurrias

Capital Partners

Charlotte

The UNC Chapel Hill graduate, 46, cofounded the private equity firm with Hugh McColl Jr. and Marc Oken in 2006. He has a Northwestern University MBA.

First job: Analyst at Bowles Hollowell Conner

Employer’s distinction: A team of low-ego, highly effective, collaborative investors

North Carolina’s challenge: Economic mobility for low-income families

Best advice: “Decide what to be and go be it.” (The Avett Brothers)

Proud family accomplishment: My wife and I have three wonderful daughters.

Person you admire: Dean Smith

Favorite recent book: The River Why by David James Duncan

Favorite music: Jam bands

Something surprising: I recently helped start Charlotte Life Navigators, a nonprofit that funds neighborhood advocates who work with families to create financial stability and economic mobility.

FINANCE & INSURANCE

FIELDING MILLER

CEO | Captrust

Raleigh

Miller, 60, co-founded the Raleigh moneymanagement company in 1997 after working for Interstate/Johnson Lane. His firm advises on more than $300 billion in clients’ assets. Chicago-based GTCR bought a 25% stake last year.

Best advice: “Every adversity, every failure, and every heartache carries with it the seed of an equivalent or a greater benefit.”

(Napoleon Hill)

Proud family accomplishment: Kim, my wife of 38 years, has made me a better man in countless ways.

Person you admire: Many, all of whom have the same characteristics: authenticity, integrity, humility, a good sense of humor and the grit to persevere.

RICHARD MOORE

CEO | First Bancorp

Raleigh

Moore, 60, has led the state’s largest community bank since 2012, after serving two terms as state treasurer. The Wake Forest University law school graduate manages more than 100 branches, 1,000 employees and $7 billion in assets. He also earned a graduate degree from the London School of Economics.

North Carolina’s challenge: Wealth inequality and its relationship to the growing rural-urban divide

Best advice: My parents said to always treat everyone the way you would like to be treated.

Favorite recent book: The British Are Coming by Rick Atkinson

SUZANNE MORRISON

executive vice president, division executive for commercial banking | Wells Fargo

Charlotte

The UNC Chapel Hill graduate, 49, oversees commercial banking in the Carolinas for businesses with as much as $2 billion in revenue.

First job: Working at a Chinese restaurant at age 15

Employer’s distinction: Wells Fargo has supported customers and invested heavily in our region for decades.

Proud family accomplishment: My husband has had great success in the technology industry. Our girls are bright, independent, caring people. One is at Indiana University; the other is in middle school.

Something surprising: I was an armwrestling champion in kindergarten.

ROBERT NEWELL

president | Franklin Street Partners Chapel Hill

After retiring as president of Wachovia Trust in 2009, he joined the investment advisory firm. Newell, 62, is an N.C. State University graduate.

First job: Janitor and landscaper at Putt-Putt

Employer’s distinction: North Carolinacentric and focused

North Carolina’s challenge: Jobs

Best advice: “Do a good job today and tomorrow will take care of itself.” (John Medlin, former Wachovia CEO)

Proud family accomplishment: We love each other unconditionally.

Person you admire: George W. Bush

Favorite recent book: Waiting for Snow in Havana by Carlos Eire

Something surprising: My granddad’s name is Bobo.

AMANDA NORTON

chief risk officer | Wells Fargo

Charlotte

Norton, 54, became the first female chief risk officer for a major U.S. bank in 2018. The University of Bath graduate had been a senior risk executive at JPMorgan Chase. North Carolina’s challenge: Income inequality. About 14% of residents live in poverty.

Best advice: My dad said, “Don’t define yourself by the decision but by your response to the decision. Do everything you can to help this person succeed.”

Favorite passion: Encouraging more women to get into mathematics and jump out of their comfort zones

Favorite recent book: Caste by Isabel Wilkerson

MICHAEL PAINTER

co-founder, managing partner | Plexus Capital

Raleigh

The UNC Chapel Hill graduate co-founded the investment company in 2005. It has raised $1.5 billion and made more than 125 investments. He previously worked for RBC Bank’s Centura Capital investment fund, along with other financial firms in Raleigh and New York.

FINANCE & INSURANCE

ART PAPPAS

founder, managing general partner | Pappas Capital

Durham

The veteran investor has infused more than $540 million in life-sciences companies since his firm opened in 1994. He previously had senior posts for GlaxoSmithKline, Abbott and Dow Chemical. He has a bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University and an Xavier University MBA.

EDWIN POSTON

co-founder, general partner | TrueBridge Capital Partners

Chapel Hill

The former head of private equity at the Rockefeller Foundation co-founded the firm with Mel Williams in 2007. Investments have included Airbnb, Dropbox and Slack. A graduate of UNC Chapel Hill, Poston also has law and MBA degrees from Emory University.

DAVID REA

president | Salem Investment Counselors

Winston-Salem

Salem ranked No. 1 on CNBC’s list of top financial advisory firms two years in a row. The Wake Forest University School of Law and Indiana University MBA graduate, 65, worked for a big accounting firm before joining Salem in 1984.

First job: Legal intern at Blue Bell Corp.

Favorite recent book: Caste by Isabel Wilkerson

Favorite music: Jazz

Something surprising: I have eight grandchildren and one more on the way.

CHUCK PURVIS

president, CEO | Coastal Federal Credit Union

Raleigh

The UNC Greensboro graduate, 63, has worked in the credit union industry for 40 years, including the last nine leading Coastal.

First job: Grocery store produce department clerk

Employer’s distinction: We were among the first Triangle employers to establish a $15 minimum wage.

North Carolina’s challenge: Education. We spend a lot of money on education but only nibble around the edges of transforming our educational systems. We need to use technology to transform education.

Proud family accomplishment: My wife, Gail, and I will celebrate our 35th anniversary this year. She is the rock of our marriage and family.

Favorite passion: Anything at our second home on Hyco Lake with family and friends. People you admire: My parents’s work ethic. They grew up during the Great Depression. Dad spent his life in sales, mainly cars. Mom was a secretary for an orthodontist for more than 40 years.

Decision you would change: Selling Apple stock in 2016 when I changed advisers

Favorite music: Country, ’70s disco and Carolina beach music

BRIAN REID

Triangle banking president | TowneBank

Raleigh

The Ohio State University graduate, 53, worked for Paragon Bank before its sale in 2018, helping it grow to more than $1 billion in Triangle assets.

First job: Landscaping and car washing North Carolina’s challenge: Regulatory pressures and taxes

Best advice: Embrace your current stage in life.

Family accomplishment: My five adult children, ages 20 to 26, inspire me daily.

Favorite passion: Being outdoors

People you admire: Mrs. Ward, my high school business teacher, and Bob Hatley, the founding CEO of Paragon Bank

Favorite recent book: The Little Book of Do! by Kel Landis

LEE ROBERTS

managing partner | SharpVue Capital

Raleigh

The former state budget director, 52, founded the Raleigh investment company in 2016. He has a bachelor’s degree from Duke University and a law degree from Georgetown University.

Employer’s distinction: We invest in private real estate and private credit, doing deals below the radar of the big institutions but larger than most “pass the hat” investments. North Carolina’s challenge: Widely varying rates of growth across our state affect virtually every public policy issue.

Proud family accomplishment: Our teenagers occasionally still want to spend time with us.

Favorite recent book: Bad Blood by John Carreyrou

WILLIAM “BILL” ROGERS JR.

president, chief operating officer | Truist Financial

Charlotte

The Greensboro native, 61, will become CEO in September after helping lead the merger with BB&T. The UNC Chapel Hill graduate joined Atlanta-based SunTrust in 1980 and became CEO in 2011.

North Carolina’s challenge: The pressing inequities facing many communities that were magnified by the pandemic

Decision I would have reversed: I would have emphasized purpose earlier in my career to make an even greater impact for our teammates, clients and communities. In 2016, SunTrust formalized our purpose of lighting the way to financial well-being by launching the onUp Movement. It has helped more than 5 million people achieve financial confidence.

Something surprising: I spent five years of my childhood in Mexico.

ROBERT RUSSO

founder, CEO | Independent Advisor Alliance

Charlotte

The University of Tennessee graduate founded his company in 2013 to assist independent investment advisers affiliated with firms including LPL Financial, Fidelity Investments, Charles Schwab and TD Ameritrade. The business has grown to more than 175 advisers. He previously founded another advisory firm, Blackbridge Financial.

JIM ROSE

state president | United Community Bank

Raleigh

The Wake Forest University graduate, 54, oversees more than 30 branches in the state for the Blairsville, Ga.-based bank, which he joined in 2017. He previously worked for Yadkin Bank.

First job: Janitor at my father’s auto-parts warehouse

North Carolina’s challenge: Our teachers and first responders deserve more pay.

Best advice: “Be the hardest worker wherever you are.” (my father)

Favorite passion: Playing the guitar

Person you admire: My wife, who has a heart of gold

Decision you would change: I turned down an internship with Goldman Sachs.

Favorite recent book: Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand

Favorite music: Blues

Something surprising: I have performed at two wedding ceremonies and four funerals.

JASON SANDNER

chief operating officer | Curi

Raleigh

The Towson University graduate will succeed Dale Jenkins as CEO in July. He joined the company, formerly Medical Mutual of North Carolina, in 2011. Curi offers liability insurance and other services for physicians. He is on the UNC Rex Healthcare board.

JIM SILLS

CEO | M&F Bancorp

Durham

The Morehouse College graduate, 62, has led the second-oldest Black-owned U.S. bank since 2014. He’s a banking industry veteran and former chief information officer for the state of Delaware.

First job: Statistician

North Carolina’s challenge: Providing support to small- and medium-size businesses

Best advice: “Work hard every day and be yourself.” (my dad)

Proud family accomplishment: My wife of 39 years and I have raised three daughters to be business leaders.

Favorite passion: Tennis

Person you admire: Reginald Lewis, the first African American to build a billiondollar company

Favorite music: R&B, especially Sade

FINANCE & INSURANCE

ANDREA SMITH

chief administrative officer | Bank of America

Charlotte

A top executive at the second-biggest U.S. bank, Smith, 54, also is a key Charlotte leader, co-chairing the Leading on Opportunity Council. Her day job involves making sure BofA operates smoothly in 90 markets while helping integrate its eight business lines. The Southern Methodist University graduate previously led Global Human Resources.

First job: I started working at a small bank when I was in the eighth grade, then I worked at a small bank while in college. It had 24 employees, so I got to do almost every job over four years. I loved making connections with my customers. When I graduated in 1988, I started working at a bigger local bank that was ultimately acquired by Bank of America. Here I am 33 years later doing what I love.

Employer’s distinction: Bank of America has always been focused on doing what is right for our customers, teammates and communities. By collaborating with other companies, governments and nonprofits, we’re able to drive sustainable longterm change — for good. Our $1 billion four-year initiative to help create opportunity for people and communities of color is investing in health and health care, creating jobs and reskilling the workforce, supporting small businesses and affordable housing. These are areas where systemic, long-term gaps have existed and where change is essential.

Favorite passions: Spending time with my family, and we‘re crazy about any kind of sport, watching them or playing them. I am spending more time on my golf game and am thrilled to be serving on the PGA of America board, which is focused on changing the face of golf.

Person you admire: Hands down, my mother. My parents divorced when I was young. She raised three kids, worked full time and put herself through undergraduate then graduate school to get her master’s in social work, so she could fulfill her passion of helping others. I grew up watching her juggle both a family and a career. Although we didn’t have a lot, we always made room at our table for others. She taught us about sacrifice, hard work, being true to yourself and the importance of giving back.

TUNDE SOTUNDE

president, CEO | Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina

Durham

The native of Nigeria, 55, previously managed Medicaid services for health insurance giant Anthem before joining the state’s largest health insurer in 2020. The pediatrician is a graduate of the University of Ibadan College of Medicine in Nigeria. He has a University of Memphis MBA.

Employer’s distinction: We purposefully focus on improving the health and wellbeing of our customers and communities. We won’t stop until health care is better for all.

North Carolina’s challenge: Health inequity. Pre-pandemic, the state’s health system ranked poorly for health disparities. Minority and low-income communities have been disproportionately impacted by the virus.

Best advice: “You never give up. No matter how hard or difficult things may get, if it’s the right thing to do.” (my mother)

Person you admire: Dr. David Satcher, a former surgeon general

GREGORY SMITH

president, CEO | Smith Salley & Associates

Greensboro

With a bachelor’s degree from N.C. State University and a UNC Chapel Hill MBA, he co-founded the Greensboro wealth management firm with Mackay Salley in 2003. The duo previously worked for Franklin Street Partners. The firm has more than $1.6 billion under management.

ERIC STEIGERWALT

president, CEO | Brighthouse Financial Charlotte

The Drew University graduate joined MetLife in 1998 and has led Brighthouse, a large annuity seller, since its spinoff in 2017. The company had a $3.8 billion market cap in late March. He is on the Charlotte Executive Leadership Council, a CEO group.

FINANCE & INSURANCE

DANA STONESTREET

president, chairman, CEO | HomeTrust Bank

Asheville

The West Liberty State College graduate, 67, joined the bank in 1989 and gained the top post in 2013. It’s the secondlargest North Carolina community bank with assets of $3.7 billion.

First job: Working on my dad’s cattle ranch

Best advice: People don’t do things to you, they do things for themselves.

Proud family accomplishment: Jana Stonestreet, my wife of 47 years

Favorite passion: Spending time with my wife

Favorite recent book: Principles by Ray Dalio

Favorite music: Jazz

Something surprising: Our son and daughter were born on the same day at 3:55 a.m., two years apart.

JOHN WARD

executive vice president for the Triangle and eastern North Carolina | Wells Fargo

Raleigh

Ward, 56, leads the bank’s work with eastern North Carolina businesses. He’s an East Carolina University graduate who joined First Union in 1988.

First job: Grass cutting

North Carolina’s challenge: The growing divide between metro and rural areas

Best advice: “Put yourself out there. Don’t wait on others to notice you.” (my dad)

Favorite passions: Running and exercising

Favorite recent book: I Love Capitalism! An American Story by Ken Langone

Something surprising: I play guitar and was a member of a rock band in high school.

SOPHIA WAJNERT

Research Triangle Park site manager | Credit Suisse

Raleigh

The American University graduate has overseen the financial-services company’s $100 million, 1,200-job North Carolina expansion announced in 2019. After working for Deutsche Bank, she joined Credit Suisse in 2008 and now leads its global culture strategy initiative.

THAD WALTON

N.C. commercial banking manager | Regions Bank

Charlotte

The UNC Chapel Hill graduate and Rowan County native, 38, joined Regions in 2011 after working for First Citizens Bank.

First jobs: Construction and landscaping

North Carolina’s challenge: The ruralurban divide

Best advice: “You can do anything if you put your mind to it.” (my father)

MARY WILLIS

president, CEO | Fidelity Bank Fuquay-Varina

Willis has led the 111-year-old bank since 2010 after starting there as a part-time teller at age 17 in 1987. It now has 54 locations and $2.6 billion in assets. The East Carolina University graduate has spent her entire career at the company.

RON WOOTEN

co-founder, managing partner | NovaQuest Capital Management

Raleigh

The UNC Chapel Hill graduate and former NFL player helped lead the private equity firm’s spinout in 2010 from the former Quintiles, now Iqvia. It manages $2.75 billion in life-sciences and health care investments. Other founders include John Bradley and Jonathan Tunnicliffe.

MARK YUSKO

founder, chief investment officer, CEO | Morgan Creek Capital Management

Chapel Hill

After managing UNC Chapel Hill’s investments for six years, Yusko in 2004 founded his own company with $1.5 billion under management as of January. Yusko, who is active in cryptocurrency investing, has a bachelor’s degree from Notre Dame University and a University of Chicago MBA.

HEALTH CARE

Hospitals are the biggest employers in most of North Carolina’s largest cities including Asheville, Charlotte, Fayetteville, Greensboro and Winston-Salem. Nearly 400,000 jobs at hospitals and related industries are supported by health systems, according to a 2017 study by the N.C. Healthcare Association. It’s natural, then, that health system leaders rank among the state’s most influential executives. A consolidation wave is boosting the size of the largest organizations.

UNC REX North Carolina Heart & Vascular Hospital, Raleigh

CARL ARMATO

president, CEO | Novant Health Clemmons

Armato, 56, joined Novant in 2008 and became CEO in 2012. The University of Southwestern Louisiana graduate earned an MBA from Vermont’s Norwich University. He oversaw the four-state system’s $5.3 billion acquisition of New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington earlier this year.

North Carolina’s challenge: Creating economic mobility and addressing racial justice need to be priorities to improve the quality of life for all. They directly tie to our efforts to address social determinants of health and improve health equity. Seeing the person behind the patient is more important than ever. Where people live, whether they hold multiple jobs, what kind of family support they have and even what they eat influences their health.

Best advice: When I worked for General Health System in Louisiana, a recruiter interviewed me for a job as a controller at a trucking company. My dad said taking the opportunity would be a mistake. “Son, I don’t know how to tell you this because you can’t see it yet,” he said. “But you’re going to run something big one day, and I don’t think it’s in trucking.”

EDWARD BROWN III

chairman | Atrium Health System

Charlotte

The Georgia Tech graduate was a 32-year Bank of America executive before joining Hendrick Automotive Group in 2010. Named CEO in 2011, he aided owner Rick Hendrick at the $10 billion autodealership group before retiring last year. He’s chaired the biggest N.C. health care system for many years, playing a key role in its expansion.

CHIP BAGGETT

CEO | North Carolina Medical Society

Raleigh

Baggett in September became head of the association that represents 10,000 physicians and other medical professionals, succeeding longtime leader Robert Seligson. He joined the group as a legislative representative in 2007. He has a bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University and a law degree from N.C. Central University.

WESLEY BURKS

CEO | UNC Health Care

Chapel Hill

The internationally recognized pediatric allergy expert was named CEO of the 11-hospital system in 2011. Burks, 66, came to UNC in 2011 and later was named physician-in-chief at UNC Children’s Hospital and dean of the medical school. He had worked at Duke University for the previous eight years. He’s a graduate of the University of Central Arkansas and University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.

Employer’s distinction: What distinguishes us is the empathy and expertise of our 35,000 co-workers in accomplishing our mission of promoting the health and wellbeing of North Carolinians. Our values of “One Great Team, Carolina Care, Leading the Way and It Starts With Me” set the tone for our unique culture.

Proud family accomplishment: Our three children. They have developed supportive and caring relationships beyond what we could have imagined.

Favorite recent books: My two favorite books over the [past] year were about individuals who lived 100 years apart, Abraham Lincoln and John Lewis. Their impact has been and will be felt for generations to come.

HEALTH CARE

MARY JO CAGLE

incoming regional president | Cone Health

Greensboro

Cagle, 61, joined Cone in 2013 as chief medical officer, becoming chief operating officer and executive vice president in 2018. She is stepping into the five-hospital system’s top spot after its merger with Norfolk, Va.-based Sentara Healthcare is approved. The University of Alabama graduate is succeeding Terry Akin, CEO since 2014.

First job: Sears catalog girl

Employer’s distinction: Our culture is caring for each other, our patients and our community.

Proud family accomplishment: My 37-year marriage with my husband, Randy, and raising two fine sons, Robert and Joseph

Favorite passion: University of Alabama football

Person you admire: My grandmother, Mary Ada Sammons, who was born in Appalachian Kentucky in the early 1900s. Her small community sent her to Kentucky Teachers’ College. When she returned, she taught in a one-room schoolhouse, providing education for the entire county. She taught me the value of education and the difference it can make it in your life. She was always gracious, elegant, firm and proud of her beginnings.

Favorite recent book: Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson

Favorite music: Southern rock and gospel

BRUCE COHEN

CEO | OrthoCarolina

Charlotte

Cohen has led the independent orthopedics network since 2016 while also keeping his own practice. It is one of the nation’s largest with 300-plus providers, seeing more than 1 million patients annually. He is a graduate of UNC Chapel Hill and Medical College of Georgia.

CHRIS ELLINGTON

president | UNC Health Care Network Hospitals

Chapel Hill

Ellington has been president since 2008 after working for health care systems in four other states. He has an accounting degree from Clemson University and a University of Phoenix MBA. The 14-hospital system signed a contract to manage Southeastern Health in Lumberton in December.

BRANDON ENFINGER

CEO | Pinehurst Medical Clinic Pinehurst

Enfinger, 40, heads Pinehurst Medical Clinic, which has more than 100 doctors and 19 locations in four counties. He has a bachelor’s degree from Southern Illinois University and a Gardner-Webb University MBA.

First job: Drive-in restaurant cook

North Carolina’s challenge: We must utilize all available avenues to enable timely access to the approved COVID vaccines.

Proud family accomplishment: My wife and children for focusing on education despite the pandemic’s distractions

Person you admire: My dad for his work ethic

Favorite recent book: Turn the Ship Around! by L. David Marquet

MICKEY FOSTER

CEO | FirstHealth of the Carolinas Pinehurst

Foster, 49, is a graduate of East Carolina University and Central Michigan University. He oversees more than 5,000 employees in 15 counties in the mid-Carolinas.

First job: Busboy

Employer’s distinction: A health system in rural North Carolina, FirstHealth boasts awards that rival many larger medical centers. It is the state’s only hospital to have received the Outstanding Patient Experience designation from Healthgrades for eight years in a row, 13 times overall. It also was named a Top Rural Hospital by Leapfrog.

North Carolina’s challenge: Ensuring infrastructure supports the needs of communities as the state’s population continues to grow

Proud family accomplishment: My wife and I are most proud of our daughter, who is a sophomore at East Carolina University’s Honors College. She is pursuing her dream to work in the medical field. We are proud of her dedication, drive and work ethic.

Favorite passion: East Carolina University Pirate football. I love going to games and tailgating with friends. I’ve been a seasonticket holder for more than 20 years.

Person you admire: Retired Cone Health CEO Tim Rice. I worked for him for many years. He taught me how to run a hospital effectively and efficiently and instilled the importance of employee engagement.

Favorite music: Country, especially Luke Combs

Something surprising: I have a bucket list. I’ve been very blessed to travel and experience many different events.

JULIE A. FREISCHLAG

CEO | Wake Forest Baptist Health Winston-Salem

With her titles — CEO, medical school dean, Atrium Health Enterprise chief academic officer — it’s surprising that Freischlag, 66, has time to continue practicing as a top vascular surgeon. A University of Illinois and Rush University graduate, she added responsibilities when Wake and Atrium agreed to partner last year, creating a behemoth with $11 billion in revenue and more than 40 hospitals that serve 7 million people.

First job: Grocery bagger

Employer’s distinction: We employ more than 20,000 faculty and staff as well as trainees in medicine and nursing.

North Carolina’s challenge: Getting past COVID and Medicaid expansion

Best advice: When I was 6 and just skipped first grade, my grandfather said that they will tell you that you cannot do things, but you are going to tell them that you can.

Proud family accomplishment: Everyone has jobs that they enjoy, and they have their own families, who are growing and happy.

Person you admire: Queen Elizabeth, who has been a force for decades and wears great hats

Favorite recent book: Emotional Intelligence 2.0 by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves

Something surprising: I craft — sewing, painting and needlework — making gifts.

DONALD R. GINTZIG

president, CEO | WakeMed Health & Hospitals

Raleigh

Gintzig, 62, landed as WakeMed’s interim chief in 2013 and CEO in 2014. The retired rear admiral and George Washington University graduate took control in rough waters after the previous CEO resigned in a Medicare billing scandal. WakeMed competes effectively against the Duke and UNC hospital systems in Wake County. Annual revenue exceeded expenses by an average $63 million between 2018 and 2020.

Employer’s distinction: WakeMed is of the community, by the community and for all of the community.

Best advice: “Never mistake kindness for weakness.” (my dad)

Proud family accomplishment: A legacy of humbly serving others

HEALTH CARE

JOHN GIZDIC

executive vice president, chief business development officer | Novant Health

Wilmington

Gizdic, 51, came to New Hanover Regional Medical Center in 2005 and was named CEO in 2017. He helped negotiate last year’s merger with Novant Health. He has an undergraduate degree from Penn State University and MBA and master’s of health administration from Pfeiffer University.

Employer’s distinction: For many years, New Hanover Regional Medical Center was a rarity — a thriving public nonprofit hospital that received no direct public financial support. In 2019, we explored a partnership to advance our mission and meet the future health care needs of our growing region. We are now part of the Novant Health family, and we look forward to all we can do together to care for our community.

North Carolina’s challenge: Efficiently and equitably distribute COVID-19 vaccines

Favorite passion: Fitness and working out, for the personal challenge, focus on wellness and camaraderie. I compete in triathlon relays with friends.

JEFF JAMES CEO | Wilmington Health

Wilmington

A Marine veteran, James has been CEO of the physician-owned multispecialty clinic with 22 sites since 2008. A national speaker on health care finance and accountable care organizations intended to curb medical costs, he holds two degrees from Eastern Illinois University.

STEPHEN LAWLER

president, CEO | North Carolina Healthcare Association

Raleigh

Lawler, 61, has led the hospital industry group since 2017 after serving as a Vidant Health executive and in the U.S. Army’s medical service corps. He is a Citadel graduate with an MBA from Georgia Southern University.

First job: Farm worker

North Carolina’s challenge: Providing highquality, equitable, accessible health care

Person you admire: President George H.W. Bush

Best advice: “You don’t have to be in charge to be important.” (an Army platoon sergeant)

Favorite passion: My wonderful family

Favorite recent book: The Book of Joy by 14th Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu, and Douglas Abrams

MARK MCCLELLAN

director | Robert J. Margolis Center for Health Policy

Durham

With degrees from the University of Texas, Harvard University and MIT, McClellan is a health care industry thought leader. He led the U.S. Food and Drug Administration from 2002 through 2004 then became the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services administrator until 2006. He joined Duke University in 2016.

JOHN “SANDY” MCNEILL JR.

CEO | Liberty Healthcare and Rehabilitation

Wilmington

Forefathers founded a Shallotte pharmacy in 1875. McNeill and his brother Ronnie lead a company that includes about 20 nursing homes that employ an estimated 2,500 and offer skilled nursing, rehab, therapy, hospice and other services, plus a pharmacy and medical supply sales business. He is a UNC Chapel Hill graduate. The McNeills invested in Wilmington’s fledgling Pharmaceutical Product Development Corp. in 1989 with founder Fred Eshelman, retaining half interest for many years. In 2011, Eshelman sold PPD to an investment group for nearly $4 billion.

MIKE NAGOWSKI

CEO | Cape Fear Valley Health

Fayetteville

Nagowski has led the state’s eighthlargest health care system, which has 7,100 employees, since 2008. The not-forprofit’s flagship, which opened in 1956, is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. Cape Fear has nearly doubled its revenue during his tenure. He has a St. Bonaventure University MBA.

HEALTH CARE

KENNETH OVERBEY CEO | EmergeOrtho-Triangle Region

Durham

Overbey was named CEO in 2020, arriving from Proliance Surgeons of Seattle to administer the system’s 18 locations in 10 counties. He got his undergraduate degree at N.C. State University and MBA at Pfeiffer University.

DALE OWEN

CEO | Tryon Medical Partners

Charlotte

Owen, 61, and 90 other Atrium Health doctors shook up Queen City medicine by forming the region’s biggest private practice with more than 150,000 patients in September 2018. The cardiologist is a UNC Chapel Hill and Wake Forest University School of Medicine graduate.

Employer’s distinction: We’re the nation’s first significant multispecialty physician group to leave a hospital system.

Best advice: Leadership is having the conviction to do as Martin Luther King Jr. stated: “The time is always right to do what is right.”

Favorite passion: Evergreen trees — studying, growing, planting and saving them

CHRIS PEEK

president, CEO | CaroMont Health

Gastonia

Peek, 50, grew up in the community served by the system he leads. A Gaston College and UNC Charlotte graduate with an MBA from Amberton University in Texas, he leads one of the state’s largest remaining independent systems with about 4,000 employees and $650 million in annual revenue. His route to CaroMont’s top job in 2017 included stops at a large Salvation Army system and assistant county manager in Mecklenburg County. CaroMont’s quality rankings often top many bigger rivals in Business North Carolina’s annual rankings. It’s working on a $350 million expansion that includes a new hospital in Belmont.

Employer’s distinction: The most powerful aspect of health and healing isn’t technology or treatments. It’s the people who use those tools to help change and save lives.

North Carolina’s challenge: Reconcile the polarization and ever-widening chasm between differing ideologies. Collaboration and compromise, as well as a commitment to individual accountability, are the only ways we move forward.

Best advice: “If someone else can do it, you can do it, too. You might have to work harder and longer, but you can do it.” (my dad)

People you admire: Our health care professionals

JOHN PERKINS

CEO | U.S. Radiology Specialists

Raleigh

The pandemic cut his company’s revenue sharply early last year before recovering. But the DePauw University graduate, who earned an MBA at Northwestern University, is undeterred. The 3,000-employee business does more than 6 million radiology studies a year. He joined the company in 2018 after serving as CEO of United Kingdom-based Bio Products Laboratory.

First job: Working at a hot dog factory

Employer’s distinction: We provide our patients the highest level of quality, value and service at our 150 outpatient imaging centers and more than 60 hospitals in 14 states. In the past three years, we have increased our revenue to $900 million from $140 million.

Best advice: “John, there is no doubt you are in a race, but there is no one ahead of you, and there is no one behind you. You are the only one in the race, and you are racing against yourself.” (my executive coach)

Favorite recent books: Educated by Tara Westover, Building a Life Worth Living by Marsha Linehan, The Undoing Project by Michael Lewis and The Body by Bill Bryson Favorite music: Coldplay

Something surprising: I have moved 13 times.

PHOTO OF CHRIS PEEK BY PETER TAYLOR

MICHAEL WALDRUM

CEO | Vidant Health

Greenville

Closely tied to East Carolina University and Brody School of Medicine, Vidant’s nine hospitals and 12,000 employees serve a region of more than 1.5 million residents. Waldrum, 59, was named CEO in 2015. He previously was president of the University of Arizona Health Network and spent 17 years as a University of Alabama School of Medicine professor. He has a medical degree from the University of Alabama and a University of Michigan MBA.

First job: Night shift orderly

Employer’s distinction: We’re eastern North Carolina’s largest employer and were formed to advance the health of the region.

North Carolina’s challenge: Economic recovery from the pandemic including our rural communities

Best advice: Always learn and be open to new experiences.

Proud family accomplishment: Our four children and five grandchildren

Favorite passion: Golf

Person you admire: My father for his steadfast commitment to providing for his family

Decision you would change: Riding my bike too fast. Ouch!

Favorite recent book: The Righteous Mind: Why Good People are Divided by Politics and Religion by Jonathan Haidt

Favorite music: Rock ‘n’ roll

Something surprising: I play the guitar but not well.

A. EUGENE WASHINGTON

president, CEO | Duke University Health System

Durham

Washington arrived in Durham in 2015 after leading the UCLA Health System. A women’s health policy expert, he has a medical degree from the University of California at San Francisco. Duke’s system employs 19,000 and has nearly $4 billion in annual revenue.

ANITA WATKINS

managing director | Rex Health Ventures

Raleigh

Watkins, 48, has headed the venture fund affiliated with UNC Rex Healthcare since 2012, helping foster innovation in earlyand mid-stage companies in services, information technology and biopharma. She is a graduate of N.C. State University and has master’s and law degrees from UNC Chapel Hill.

First jobs: Babysitting, mowing grass, bagging groceries, waiting tables and working at a record store

Employer’s distinction: We invest in the discovery and development of new treatments, tools, products and services that foster innovation and positively impact health care. Every team we support will improve the human condition and people’s health and welfare.

Best advice: Stay within the area I can see, take on the things where I can make a difference, and listen first. (Erskine Bowles, my best mentor)

Favorite passions: Community service, cooking, reading and outdoor activities

EUGENE WOODS

president, CEO | Atrium Health

Charlotte

Woods, 56, has led the 42-hospital system since 2016 and led its combination with Wake Forest Baptist Health to establish Charlotte’s first medical school. The Penn State University graduate chaired the American Hospital Association and is an outspoken proponent of diversity and inclusion.

Best advice: “Don’t believe your press clippings — good or bad.”

Proud family accomplishment: My two boys, who have big hearts, a strong work ethic and are pursuing their dreams

Favorite passion: Playing guitar and recording original music

Favorite recent book: Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom by David Blight

HOSPITALITY & TOURISM

With its beautiful beaches, towering mountains and lively cities, North Carolina is a hot spot for travelers. The record $26.8 billion in direct visitor spending in 2019 supported more than 236,580 jobs statewide.

1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse, Edenton

LEAH WONG ASHBURN

family owner, president, CEO | Highland Brewing

Asheville

Ashburn, 50, took the reins of Asheville’s first craft brewer, which her father started, in 2015. The UNC Chapel Hill graduate was a semifinalist for the James Beard Award for Outstanding Beer and Wine Professional in 2018.

Best advice: My parents gave me a scroll featuring two Chinese characters. Together, they mean crisis. Apart, they mean danger and opportunity. My dad said: “When you are in crisis, you feel the danger. Look for opportunity.”

Proud family accomplishment: What we’ve built and how we move it forward

Favorite passion: Outdoor activities

MANISH ATMA

president, CEO | Atma Hotel Group

Chapel Hill

A UNC Wilmington graduate, Atma started his company in 1995. It owns 10 hotels under several well-known names. It added a Courtyard by Marriott and Sheraton in its hometown in 2019. The purchase added meeting space close to Research Triangle Park.

ROLF BLIZZARD

managing director | Turnpike Properties

Winston-Salem

Blizzard, 48, has spent the past 15 years at the commercial real estate company owned by the Slick family. The UNC Chapel Hill graduate was a lobbyist at N.C. Citizens for Business and Industry and chief of staff for former N.C. Senate President Pro Tempore Marc Basnight.

North Carolina’s challenge: Truly addressing reconciliation in our divided society and not just applying eyewash

Person you admire: The late Marc Basnight, who was a model of leadership, humility, fairness, compassion and determination

Something surprising: I was a Tar Heels basketball team manager under Dean Smith.

CHRIS CAVANAUGH

founder, president | Magellan Strategy Group

Asheville

A winner of Southeast Tourism Society’s Shining Example Award, Cavanaugh, 57, started his consultancy in 2004. He previously led marketing at The Biltmore Co. for nine years, helping double revenue at the nation’s most-visited house attraction.

First job: Delivering balloon bouquets

Employer’s distinction: My business is an extension of my passion for marketing, strategy, research and travel.

North Carolina’s challenge: Education is the state’s No. 1 challenge. We’re not doing enough to feed and sustain it.

Best advice: Steve Miller, a former boss, said, “It’s better to be forewarned than forearmed. Be prepared.”

JIM BELEY

general manager | The Umstead Hotel and Spa

Cary

Beley oversees the award-winning 150room hotel. The Florida International University and Culinary Institute of America graduate is a North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association Lodging Operator of the Year and on an N.C. State University Poole College of Management advisory board.

Decision you would change: When I started as a consultant, I thought I had to use important-sounding jargon in my presentations to show my audience how smart I was.

Favorite recent book: The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson

BILL CECIL JR. president, CEO | Biltmore Co. Asheville

Cecil runs the nation’s largest privately owned home, which his greatgrandfather, George Vanderbilt, built in the 1890s. It was permanently converted into an attraction in 1956. As a youth, Cecil worked at the Biltmore Estate, clearing manure from stables and doing other chores.

HOSPITALITY & TOURISM

JACK CECIL

president | Biltmore Farms

Asheville

The Vanderbilt family heir joined the famous business in 1984 and has led various expansions through residential and commercial real estate projects, including building more than 1,000 homes. Active in many local and statewide boards, he is a graduate of UNC Chapel Hill and American Graduate School of International Management.

DENNY EDWARDS

president, CEO | Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau

Raleigh

Edwards, 59, has led the 29-employee bureau since 2007. The University of Northern Iowa graduate previously worked for tourism bureaus in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Houston and Palm Springs, Calif.

First job: Mowing lawns

Employer’s distinction: We are responsible for increasing visitation to Wake County. More than 67,000 county residents are employed in the leisure and hospitality industry.

North Carolina’s challenge: Ensuring our tourism industry recovers quickly from the pandemic. More than half of the jobs lost during the pandemic were in leisure and hospitality. Wake County lost 327 conventions and sporting events, representing a $176.6 million direct economic impact.

Best advice: “Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.” (Benjamin Franklin)

Person you admire: My father, who I lost a few years ago to brain cancer

Favorite recent book: The Book of Joy by 14th Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu and Douglas Abrams

Favorite music: Country western

Something surprising: I worked with Gene Autry at his hotel in Palm Springs, Calif., for three years in the 1980s.

ASHLEY CHRISTENSEN

owner | AC Restaurants

Raleigh

The James Beard Award’s Best Chef: Southeast in 2012 and 2019 Outstanding Chef, Christensen opened her first restaurant in 2007. The N.C. State University graduate now owns five eateries and bars in the capital city. She is a past board member of Southern Foodways Alliance.

LISA COOPER

president | Mast General Store

Valle Crucis

Cooper started working at the original general store at age 11 after it was acquired by her family. It opened its 10th store last June in Roanoke, Va. She serves on several boards of directors, including the Blue Ridge Conservancy and Downtown Winston-Salem Partnership.

GARY FROEBA

managing director | The Omni Grove Park Inn

Asheville

Froeba leads one of the state’s most historic resort hotels, which opened in 1913. He chairs the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority board and led last year’s search to hire Explore Asheville CEO Victoria Isley. Dallas-based Omni Hotels & Resorts owns the property.

JONATHAN FUSSELL

president | Duplin Winery

Rose Hill

Fussell started at the family-owned winery at age 5, loading corks in the corker. A UNC Chapel Hill graduate, he became Duplin Retail manager in 2001 and Duplin Wine Family president and Duplin Wine Cellars vice president in 2010.

PHOTO OF ASHLEY CHRISTENSEN BY PAUL MEHAFFEY

A.D. “ZANDER” GUY JR.

chairman | N.C. Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission

Holly Ridge

A former Surf City and Jacksonville mayor, Guy, 72, has chaired the regulatory group twice. He owned a real estate company for more than 40 years and served on the N.C. Banking Commission under four governors.

Employer’s distinction: Balancing commerce, public health and public safety is necessary for us to be successful.

Best advice: “Don’t react, but act with a plan.” (my dad)

Proud family accomplishment: My dad prepared me for life’s physical, emotional and spiritual challenges.

Decision you would change: I would have finished my college degree.

STEPHEN HILL

chairman, CEO | Discovery Insurance, Hill Realty and Mother Earth Brewing

Kinston

Hill is a graduate of Lees-McRae College. His family has operated one of the state’s biggest nursing home companies for decades. He has invested more than $12 million to renovate more than 60 homes and commercial properties in Kinston.

VICTORIA ISLEY

president, CEO | Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

Asheville

A UNC Chapel Hill graduate, Isley returned to North Carolina in December. She started her career in Durham and most recently was chief operating officer at Destination Marketing Association International.

HOSPITALITY & TOURISM

MOHAMMAD JENATIAN

president | Greater Charlotte Hospitality & Tourism Alliance

Charlotte

The graduate of UNC Charlotte, 61, has led the alliance since its start in 1994. It represents more than 900 hotels and other businesses, helping build support for projects including the downtown convention center and baseball stadium.

First job: Pizza Inn cook

North Carolina’s challenge: Overcoming our political divides and bickering

Best advice: An older friend told me, “If they don’t give you a job, become an employer. If they don’t rent an apartment to you, become a landlord. If they don’t lend you money, become a lender.”

Proud family accomplishment: My parents taught me the values of family, friends, education, respect for others, positive thinking, work ethic, working smart and believing that I can accomplish anything.

Person you admire: Jerry Orr, former Charlotte Douglas International Airport director. He helped create one of the world’s best, most efficient and busiest airports.

Favorite recent book: Leverage Your Best, Ditch the Rest by Madeleine Homan and Scott Blanchard

MARK LAPORT

president, CEO | Concord

Hospitality Enterprises

Raleigh

Laport began developing and managing hotels in 1985. His company oversees more than 135 properties and is majority owned by New York-based Alleghany Capital. He is a graduate of Mount Union College and Rochester Institute of Technology.

First job: Pumping gas

Employer’s distinction: If people feel safe and free to be authentic in the workplace, they will bring their best selves to work, fueling innovation and optimal performance.

Best advice: My first boss said if you want to become a successful leader, don’t tell people what to do. Instead, sell what it is you want to convey.

Proud family accomplishment: My wife, a former French teacher, raised our two great children while I, too often, was working.

Person you admire: My high school basketball coach, who taught me to be a team player and avid competitor.

Favorite recent book: Grow: How Ideals Power Growth and Profit at the World’s Greatest Companies by Jim Stengel

Favorite music: ’60s and ’70s rock ‘n’ roll

Something surprising: I am a wine snob.

JOHN MCCONNELL

president, CEO | McConnell Golf

Raleigh

After leading several medical software companies, McConnell, 70, turned to golf in 2003, when the Virginia Tech graduate purchased Raleigh Country Club. McConnell Golf now owns 15 courses and had its best year in 2020, he says.

North Carolina’s challenge: How our economy will be affected by this year’s government policy changes

Proud family accomplishment: Our family is growing with a recent marriage and the birth of my sixth grandchild.

Something surprising: My business success began with me being fired.

TOM MURRAY

CEO | Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority

Charlotte

The Villanova University graduate, 61, spent more than 30 years in the hotel industry before taking his authority post in 2011. Its 200 full-time and 1,500 parttime employees typically host about 600 events and 2 million visitors at city-owned venues annually. Past employers included Marriott, Hilton and InterContinental Hotels Group.

First job: Hotel company controller

North Carolina’s challenge: Continuing to make policies that support the hospitality and tourism industry. It’s the region’s fourth largest sector.

Best advice: “Inspire your employees to come to work every day.” (a former boss)

DOYLE PARRISH

CEO | Summit Hospitality Group

Raleigh

Parrish founded Summit in 1988 and built the business to about 18 hotels across the state with more than 700 employees.

The UNC Chapel Hill and Wake Forest University graduate has served as board chairman of the N.C. Travel & Tourism Coalition and Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau.

TOM PASHLEY

president | Pinehurst Resort

Pinehurst

The famous resort was a big player in landing the U.S. Golf Association’s second headquarters last year. The University of Georgia and Duke University graduate has worked at “The Home of American Golf” since 2000.

NAYAN PATEL

president | CN Hotels

Greensboro

Patel purchased his first hotel more than 30 years ago, joining the family business. Today, CN Hotels manages 30 properties across the Southeast with eight more under development. Its collection includes hotels under the Marriott, Hilton, IHG, Wyndham and Best Western labels.

REBECCA WHITMARSH

area director of operations | Northwood Hospitality

Charlotte

Whitmarsh, 37, is a McGill University and UNC Charlotte graduate. She is also general manager of Aloft Charlotte Ballantyne, one of 13 Northwood Hospitality properties that include Courtyard by Marriott and Staybridge Suites inn and The Ballantyne Hotel & Lodge.

First job: Sales manager at a Lake Placid, N.Y., resort

Employer’s distinction: Northwood Hospitality has a distinguished portfolio of hotels and resorts nationwide and believes in putting its people first.

Favorite passion: Travel

Something surprising: I lived in Montreal for four years.

ROBERT WINSTON III

owner, CEO | Winston Hospitality

Raleigh

Winston, part of a family with a long history in N.C. hospitality, oversees about six hotels. Over his career he has helped develop or redevelop about 100 properties. He’s a trustee at his alma mater, UNC Chapel Hill, and is a past chairman of the Raleigh-Durham International Airport Authority board.

GREG WALTER

executive vice president, general manager | Charlotte Motor

Speedway

Concord

Affiliated with Speedway Motorsports since 1999, Walters took the wheel of the company’s Charlotte track in 2016. Earlier in his career, the UNC Chapel Hill journalism school graduate worked for Capitol Broadcasting and ESPN.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

North Carolina’s technology industry has grown at double the rate of the national average in recent years. Information-technology employment tops 365,000 after increasing by more than 40% over the last decade, according to the CompTIA trade group. The state benefits from a mix of global giants and smaller homegrown entrepeneurial ventures.

ROBBIE ALLEN

co-founder, CEO | Startomatic

Durham

After selling his Automated Insights artificial-intelligence company for a reported $80 million, Allen launched Startomatic, which offers software to help businesses choose names, file documents and launch operations.

PETER BOURNE

CEO | Bright Wolf, a Cognizant company

Chapel Hill

Bright Wolf, an industrial-software company, named Bourne its CEO in 2016. At the end of 2020, he oversaw its sale to business outsourcer Cognizant, a Fortune 500 company. He is a graduate of the University of California, Santa Barbara.

JUD BOWMAN

founder, CEO | Sift Media

Durham

Bowman, 39, co-founded his first company, Motricity, while in high school. It later had a $50 million IPO. He started Sift Media, which collects data from app users, in 2015. It raised more than $4 million in 2016.

North Carolina’s challenge: Making entrepreneurs and business leaders better understand its economic opportunities, talented workforce and quality of life

Proud family accomplishment: My amazing wife, Angelique, who serves as the academic director of a Montessori school in downtown Durham

Favorite music: Classical

Something surprising: I’ve always lived in North Carolina.

ROBERT BRUGGEWORTH

president, CEO | Qorvo

Greensboro

Bruggeworth started with Qorvo’s predecessor, RF Micro Devices, in 1999. This past year, its technology helped land Perseverance Rover on Mars. Annual revenue tops $3.7 billion. The Wilkes University graduate is the Semiconductor Industry Association’s chairman.

MICHAEL CAPPS

CEO | Diveplane

Raleigh

After helping take Epic Games’ Fortnite and Gears of War games to blockbuster status, Capps started his own firm to create artificial intelligence that helps make fair, unbiased decisions in 2018. He has degrees from UNC Chapel Hill and Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

ANIL CHAWLA

founder, chairman | ArchiveSocial

Durham

Chawla counts former President Barack Obama among the 5,000 users of his software, which captures and archives social media posts. The Georgia Institute of Technology graduate’s company has attracted investments, including $53 million from private-equity firm Level Equity in 2019.

CHRIS DOWNIE

CEO | Flexential

Charlotte

A Dartmouth College graduate who earned an MBA at New York University, Downie, 52, became CEO of the data center and infrastructure company after the merger of Charlotte’s Peak 10 and ViaWest in 2017.

First job: Financial analyst

Proudest family moment: My daughter Hayden, who is kind and optimistic about our world

Favorite recent book: New to Big: How Companies Can Create Like Entrepreneurs, Invest Like VCs, and Install a Permanent Operating System for Growth by Christina Wallace and David Kidder

Something surprising: I lived the first four years of my life in Paris and Barcelona and spoke French before speaking English.

JOY PARR DRACH

president, CEO | Advanced Animal Diagnostics

Morrisville

Drach, who has an MBA from the University of Chicago, founded the company in 2009 mainly to develop tests to diagnose sick cattle. Last summer, she began testing to detect the coronavirus in humans, backed by a $50,000 grant from the N.C. Biotech Center.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

DAVID GARDNER

founder, managing partner | Cofounders Capital

Cary

An entrepreneur, author and N.C. State University graduate, Gardner, 57, spent more than 30 years building software technology companies. His investment company has raised $43 million. It made its largest initial investment — $1.3 million — in Cary-based digital marketer marGo in January.

First job: Moving pianos

Employer’s distinction: The state’s most active early-stage venture investment fund

Person you admire: Bill Gates, who wrote giving away his fortune is harder than making it

Something surprising: My past jobs include tobacco picker, wedding singer and martial arts instructor.

JIM GOODNIGHT

CEO | SAS Institute

Cary

The state’s most famous tech titan co-founded SAS in 1976. Its analytics software is used by more than 83,000 organizations worldwide. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees and Ph.D. at N.C. State University. Forbes estimates his net worth at $6.5 billion.

TIMOTHY HUMPHREY

North Carolina senior state executive; RTP senior site executive | IBM

Raleigh

Humphrey, 47, has worked for IBM or Lenovo since earning an electrical engineering degree at N.C. State University in 1996. He has been senior state executive since 2018 while helping IBM add artificial intelligence to internal operations. He is a UNC Health director.

North Carolina’s challenge: A shortage of STEM talent, especially within underrepresented minorities: The National Skills Coalition says only 44% of N.C. workers have had access to training for in-demand careers.

Best advice: You can’t be what you can’t see.

Favorite passions: Watching team sports and playing poker

ERIC LATALLADI

global chief technology officer | MetLife

Cary

Latalladi was a senior applications developer at a New Jersey broker-dealer acquired by Royal Bank of Canada in 2007. He started with MetLife in 2012, about when the insurer split its tech headquarters between Charlotte and Cary. He is an MBA graduate of the University of Western Ontario.

DEVERRE LIERMAN

vice president, head of U.S. Southeast Region and Raleigh Innovation Hub | Infosys

Raleigh

The former IBM executive and Rutgers University graduate was tapped to run the Indian IT company’s Wake County tech hub in 2018. It is expected to employ as many as 2,000 people.

JESSE LIPSON

founder, CEO | Levitate

Raleigh

The serial entrepreneur sold his software company ShareFile to Citrix in 2011. He has raised more than $20 million in investments for his latest venture, Levitate, which designs small business marketing software. The Duke University graduate helped establish coworking space Raleigh Founded.

GINA LOFTON

chief technology officer | Microsoft US

Raleigh

Lofton, 55, earned an electrical engineering degree from N.C. Agricultural & Technical State University. She focuses on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and STEM diversity.

North Carolina’s challenge: The growing economic, educational and social disparities between those with digital skills who have access to computers and broadband internet and those who don’t

Best advice: “You just do what’s right and let God take care of the rest!” (my grandmother)

Favorite passions: Entertaining and cooking for family and friends

Favorite recent book: Dare to Lead by Brene Brown

Favorite music: ’80s and ’90s R&B

O’HARA MACKEN

partner and senior vice president | IHS Markit

Raleigh

A Fairfield University graduate, Macken continued as office lead when financialservices provider Ipreo was purchased for $1.9 billion by London-based IHS in 2018. At the time Ipreo had about 325 employees and a $2 million state incentive to add 250 more.

DAVID MORKEN

CEO | Bandwidth

Raleigh

The Oral Roberts University and University of Notre Dame Law School graduate founded the company in 1999 then took it public in 2017. It had a market value of $3.1 billion in late March. Morken expects to more than double its 750-person staff over the next few years.

DAVID MOUNTS

chairman, CEO | Inmar Intelligence Winston-Salem

Mounts has led Inmar, which develops technology and provides analytics for retail, manufacturing and other sectors, since 2010. The University of Nevada at Las Vegas and Wharton MBA graduate previously worked in executive posts for Domino’s Pizza and UPS.

JILLIAN MUNRO

group head of data and analytics technology | Envestnet | Yodlee

Raleigh

A member of NC TECH’s advisory board, Munro earned degrees from Bucknell and George Washington universities. As a senior technology executive, she’s worked for some big financial-services firms including JPMorgan Chase and Fidelity. She joined Envestnet, a financial-data services company, in November.

TODD OLSON

co-founder, CEO | Pendo

Raleigh

Pendo, considered one of the state’s most promising tech startups, uses analytics to help managers optimize their software development. Prior to Pendo, the Carnegie Mellon University graduate founded 6th Sense, which was acquired by Rally, and Cerebellum. Pendo has raised more than $200 million in capital. Last year, he wrote a book, The ProductLed Organization

First job: Software engineering job at age 14

Best advice: Work on the things only you can do.

Favorite recent book: No Rules Rules: Netflix and the Culture of Reinvention by Erin Meyer and Reed Hastings

SANJAY PAL

global vice president and head of CX, IBM Hybrid Cloud | IBM Durham

Pal helps clients embrace artificial intelligence and the cloud. He worked for Cisco Systems for 23 years before joining IBM in 2017. The master’s degree graduate of Louisiana State University is chairman of the Council for Entrepreneurial Development.

PIERRE NAUDÉ

CEO | nCino

Wilmington

The South African-born graduate of Upper Iowa University has more than 30 years of financial technology experience. Naudé, 62, helped develop nCino, a fintech that specializes in cloud technology for banks, raising $248 million from an initial public offering last summer.

First job: Coding and programming some of the first ATMs

Employer’s distinction: Every employee is valued, empowered and respected.

Best advice: “Life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so, it is with you. ... We are in charge of our attitudes.” (Charles Swindoll)

Favorite recent book: The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson

Something surprising: I was born on a wine farm.

MICHAEL PRAEGER

CEO | AvidXchange

Charlotte

The Georgetown University graduate, 52, co-founded the payment automation solutions provider that has raised more than $1 billion and is considered likely to go public this year at a valuation of $7 billion or more. He and his wife visited many cities before picking Charlotte as the best place for a startup.

North Carolina’s challenge: Thousands of students have limited access to laptops, internet and technology education, which affects their future education and employment opportunities.

Best advice: “Fortune favors the bold, but it’s hard to be bold if you don’t have passion in what you do.” (my mentor Roe Stamps) Favorite music: AvidXchange house band Pluto for Planet

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

BUFFIE RODRI

managing director | Accenture

Raleigh

The N.C. State University graduate, 52, leads the North Carolina office for the Ireland-based information-technology and consulting business, where she’s worked since 1992. She is vice chair of NC TECH’s board of directors.

Employer’s distinction: Our people are our business, and our culture is unmatched, making a company of more than 500,000 feel like a family.

North Carolina’s challenge: The growing distance between our rural and urban communities in terms of available infrastructure and opportunities: We need to close that gap.

Favorite passion: My family

CHRISTY SHAFFER

general partner | Hatteras Venture

Partners

Durham

The former president and CEO of Inspire Pharmaceuticals raised more than $300 million before taking it public. She has spent more than 20 years in the lifesciences industry. Shaffer earned her Ph.D. at the University of Tennessee. She now oversees life-sciences investments for Hatteras.

JIM TRIANDIFLOU

CEO | Insightsoftware

Raleigh

Triandiflou, 55, was named CEO of the financial-reporting software company in October. A graduate of State University of New York at Oswego and Arizona State University, the former CEO of health care education provider Relias was Triangle Business Journal’s Business Person of the Year in 2017.

First job: Newspaper route

Best advice: A former boss told me, “Ego is a dangerous thing.” People make bad decisions when they think too highly of themselves. There’s a lot of luck in success.

Proud family accomplishment: My four children

Favorite music: Beatles, Billy Joel and Boston

TIM SWEENEY

founder, CEO | Epic Games

Cary

The video game industry superstar’s company created Fortnite, which counts 350 million users, and Unreal Engine, software used by other game-makers. A former University of Maryland student, he has a net worth of $9.5 billion, according to Bloomberg. His firm is suing Apple and Google over third-party payment collections, while also raising more than $1 billion in additional capital.

JIM WHITEHURST

president | IBM

Raleigh

The former Red Hat CEO, 54, took his new post in January, less than two years after IBM paid a record $34 billion for the Raleigh-based open-source software company. He came to North Carolina in 2007 after being chief operating officer at Delta Air Lines. He is a Rice University and Harvard University graduate.

SCOT WINGO

CEO | Spiffy

Durham

Wingo, 52, holds computer-engineering degrees from the University of South Carolina and N.C. State University. He started four companies, including ChannelAdvisor, which went public in 2013, and Spiffy, a mobile vehicle maintenance business.

First job: Intern at an HVAC company

Favorite passion: Star Wars, the movies and collectibles

BOB YOUNG

founder, CEO | Lulu Press

Raleigh

The University of Toronto graduate was the co-founder and public face of Raleighbased Red Hat, an open-source software company that went public in 1999, posting Wall Street’s eighth-biggest oneday gain. IBM bought Red Hat in 2019. His latest enterprise helps people self-publish printed materials.

MATTHEW ZIELINSKI

president | Lenovo North America Morrisville

The University of Michigan graduate joined the Chinese-owned computer giant in 2018 after 11 years with Advanced Micro Devices. Zielinski, 42, was named Lenovo’s international sales organization leader in February. A month earlier, he predicted that Lenovo would become North America’s second-largest PC manufacturer.

First job: Playing piano at a Michigan mall at age 13

Employer’s distinction: Lenovo operates in more than 180 markets worldwide. Our leadership represents many cultures.

North Carolina’s challenge: Supporting the health, safety and future of its residents and businesses

Favorite passion: My family

LAW

North Carolina has more than 28,000 licensed lawyers across the state. This section reflects only a sampling of some of the most powerful, most of whom work for larger firms in the bigger metro areas. This list focuses mainly on those chosen for leadership positions by their peers.

North Carolina State Capitol, Raleigh

STACY ACKERMANN

partner | K&L Gates

Charlotte

Ackermann is the national law firm’s finance practice area leader. She joined K&L in 2012 after working as a partner at Alston & Bird. She is a graduate of Furman University and the University of South Carolina School of Law.

CATHERINE BARNES

managing partner | James, McElroy & Diehl

Charlotte

Barnes, 58, represents closely held businesses and real estate developers. A Salem State College and UNC School of Law graduate, she succeeded Pender McElroy as the firm’s leader in 2014.

First job: Operating the staple machine at a button factory

North Carolina’s challenge: Barriers to economic mobility

Best advice: It was from my mother when I graduated high school: Follow your dreams but have a Plan B.

STEVE BERLIN

managing partner | Kilpatrick, Townsend & Stockton

Winston-Salem

Chairman of the firm’s environment and production regulation team, Berlin, 61, has been at his firm for nearly 35 years. With bachelor’s and law degrees from Wake Forest University, he’s a member of Business North Carolina’s Legal Elite Hall of Fame under environmental law.

First job: Mowing lawns

Employer’s distinction: Genuine care and concern for its employees

North Carolina’s challenge: Uniting to work on challenges

Proud family accomplishment: We love being together.

Person you admire: Frederick Douglass

Favorite recent book: Silas Marner by Mary Ann Evans (George Eliot)

JOSEPH CHESHIRE V

partner | Cheshire Parker Schneider

Raleigh

Cheshire opened his practice in 1978. He’s handled many highly publicized cases, including representing the wrongfully accused Duke University lacrosse players. The UNC Chapel Hill and Wake Forest University School of Law graduate led the creation of the state’s Indigent Defense Services Commission.

DAN CAHILL

managing partner | Poyner Spruill

Raleigh

For more than 20 years, Cahill, 53, has represented corporations in state and federal court. A UNC Chapel Hill and Wake Forest University School of Law graduate, he’s been a partner at Poyner since 2001 and managing partner since 2017.

First job: Janitor at office buildings

North Carolina’s challenge: Expanding and maintaining a top-tier workforce. That requires a sound education system, quality and affordable health care, and well-designed infrastructure in our cities and towns.

Favorite passion: Anything outdoors, from hiking to yard work

Decision you would change: Not studying Spanish in college

BARBARA CHRISTY

partner | Schell Bray

Greensboro

Christy, 62, is president of the North Carolina State Bar. A graduate of Appalachian State University and UNC School of Law, her practice focuses on commercial real estate transactions.

North Carolina Super Lawyers magazine listed her among the top real estate lawyers in 2010 through 2014, 2019 and 2020.

First job: Lifeguard

North Carolina’s challenge: Better access to justice

Favorite passion: Having friends and family over for dinner on our porch

Person you admire: Kimberly Traverse, who advocates for her 4-year-old son, who is battling an aggressive cancer

Favorite recent book: Caste by Isabel Wilkerson

LOIS WAGMAN COLBERT

partner | Kilpatrick Townsend

Charlotte

Colbert leads the international firm’s employee benefits practice group. A University of Illinois and University of Michigan Law School graduate, she wrote for or edited a decade’s worth of annual supplements to employee benefits law. She has been listed in Super Lawyers

NATHAN DUGGINS

managing partner | Tuggle Duggins

Greensboro

A graduate of UNC Chapel Hill and Wake Forest University School of Law, Duggins, 51, helps clients navigate litigation related to construction, complex business disputes and real estate. He serves on the board of directors for Greensboro’s chamber, merchants and education alliance groups.

First job: Paper boy

Employer’s distinction: Our new building and office space creates a signature, highenergy and collaborative workspace.

North Carolina’s challenge: Infrastructure and affordability of postsecondary education

Best advice: Be intrepid in all things. (my dad)

Favorite passions: Wood chopping and fire building. (We recently moved to the country.)

Person you admire: Thomas Jefferson

Decision you would change: I would have gained valuable work experience before attending law school.

Favorite recent book: The First Tycoon: The Epic Life of Cornelius Vanderbilt by T.J. Stiles

Favorite music: Country

Something surprising: At age 5, I found the golden egg at a citywide Easter egg hunt and won a stuffed bunny that was bigger than me.

DAVID DUKE

managing partner | Young Moore and Henderson

Raleigh

Duke, 62, leads the firm’s trucking and transportation practice group. He’s a graduate of the College of William and Mary and Wake Forest University School of Law.

Employer’s distinction: Having transitioned from its founders to a third generation of leadership, the firm’s principles originally practiced in 1954 remain firmly in place today.

Best advice: If you’re concerned whether something is ethical, you already know the answer. Make your word your bond; never renege on anything you say or promise.

Proud family accomplishment: My dad, 92, founded the county’s first volunteer rescue squad, chaired the industrial development authority and airport, and helped start a community bank. His last business venture involved establishing a cemetery.

Something surprising: I was a part-time Scooby-Doo-costumed character during college.

BRADLEY EVANS

co-managing director | Ward and Smith

Greenville

The Ahoskie native, 45, specializes in civil litigation and has experience in trade secret misappropriation, intellectual property infringement, corporate dissolution and antitrust disputes. He has bachelor’s and law degrees from Wake Forest University.

First job: Farm laborer

North Carolina’s challenge: The ruralurban divide, including transportation infrastructure, broadband internet access, utilities and economic development

Best advice: Never do anything halfway.

Proud family accomplishment: Serving and supporting eastern North Carolina

Favorite passions: Fishing offshore and spending time in the woods

Favorite music: Classic rock and reggae

JAMES FARRIN

founder, president, CEO | Law Offices of James Scott Farrin

Durham

Farrin has used heavy broadcast advertising to build one of the state’s biggest personal injury and product liability practices. He is a Trinity College and Duke University School of Law graduate. He received the North Carolina Advocates for Justice’s 2011 Citation of Excellence Ebbie Award.

JAMES FERGUSON II

founder, president | Ferguson, Chambers & Sumter

Charlotte

The Asheville native co-founded the state’s first integrated law firm in 1967. He has been a key N.C. civil rights leader over the past 50 years. An N.C. Central University and Columbia University law school graduate, he has taught at Harvard University Law School.

PHOTO OF JAMES FARRIN BY CHRISTER BERG

CHARLES FRANCIS

founder, managing partner | Francis Law Firm

Raleigh

A Princeton University and Duke University School of Law graduate, Francis was a federal prosecutor before opening his firm. He is a former Raleigh City Council member and a founding director of North State Bank.

KIMBERLY BULLOCK GATLING

partner, chief diversity and inclusion officer | Fox Rothschild

Greensboro

A graduate of N.C. A&T State University and George Washington University, Gatling, 46, joined a Fox Rothschild predecessor firm in 2001. She chairs the United Way board and serves on the Cone Health Foundation board of directors.

North Carolina’s challenge: Access to affordable health care. North Carolina is one of 12 states that hasn’t expanded Medicaid.

Proud family accomplishment: Being a wife and mother of three sons

Favorite recent book: Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown

Favorite music: Hip-hop from the ’90s

CLARK GOODMAN

managing partner | Womble Bond

Dickinson

Charlotte

With more than 25 years of experience, including intellectual property and telecommunications-franchise specialties, Goodman is Charlotte office managing partner and leads its business-litigation practice group. He is a Duke University and Harvard University Law School graduate. Womble Bond has more than 950 lawyers in 19 U.S. and eight U.K. offices.

ROBERT HARRINGTON

partner | Robinson Bradshaw

Charlotte

North Carolina Lawyers Weekly ’s 2017 Lawyer of the Year, Harrington, 58, chairs the firm’s litigation department, representing corporate clients in a variety of business matters. He has bachelor’s and law degrees from Duke University and has been a president of the Mecklenburg County Bar.

First job: Summer camp counselor

Employer’s distinction: We attract talented and innovative lawyers, we have a collegial environment, and we devote time and resources for our profession and communities.

North Carolina’s challenge: Closing our opportunity gaps. Access to excellent education varies too much by race, ethnicity, socio-economic status and location.

STEPHEN GRABENSTEIN

president | Van Winkle Law Firm

Asheville

A graduate of the University of Tennessee School of Law, Grabenstein leads a firm of more than 35 lawyers. He joined Van Winkle in 1992 after working as an assistant attorney general in Tennessee. He focuses his practice on trusts, estates and other fiduciary-related claims.

THOMAS GRIFFIN III

managing partner | Parker Poe

Charlotte

Griffin, 62, focuses on the energy industry, practicing in environmental, litigation and renewable energy. He is a graduate of Wake Forest University and University of Virginia School of Law.

First job: Delivering TV Guides at age 10

North Carolina’s challenge: Ensuring opportunity and success are available statewide

Best advice: When I first ran for managing partner, I asked my father, who was a high-ranking military officer, for his 10 most-important aspects of leadership. All dealt with being a compassionate and thoughtful leader.

Favorite passion: Long bike rides

Favorite passion: Community service. I’ve served in leadership roles for many organizations, including the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law.

Person you admire: Julius Chambers for his dedication to civil rights

Favorite music: R&B and jazz

HARPER HECKMAN

member | Nexsen Pruet board of directors

Greensboro

Heckman, 55, is one of three North Carolinians inducted into the American College of Construction Lawyers. He has bachelor’s and law degrees from UNC Chapel Hill.

First job: Hardware sales

Employer’s distinction: We look out for our clients’ best interests in all areas of their business.

North Carolina’s challenge: The growing wealth disparity

Best advice: “Take your work seriously, but never let it be the reason you get out of bed each morning.” (Winburne King, my first real boss)

Favorite recent book: The Evening and the Morning by Ken Follett

Favorite music: Americana/alt-country

MARK HOLT

partner | Holt Sherlin

Raleigh

President of the North Carolina Bar Association and North Carolina Bar Foundation, Holt has practiced for more than 30 years. Named to Business North Carolina’s Legal Elite, he is a Wake Forest University and UNC School of Law graduate.

PHOTO OF ROBERT HARRINGTON BY ALEX CASON

PATRICIA HOSMER

partner | McGuireWoods

Charlotte

A member of the firm’s executive committee, Hosmer is a Yale University and UNC School of Law graduate. Her practice is focused on transactions involving aviation and other equipment. Chambers USA included her in its America’s Leading Lawyers for Business from 2016 to 2019. McGuireWoods has nearly 1,000 lawyers, according to the National Law Journal

BETH TYNER JONES

office managing partner | Womble Bond Dickinson

Raleigh

Jones, 57, leads the international firm’s education and school law team. The Best Lawyers in America has recognized her work since 2015. She has bachelor’s and law degrees from Campbell University, where she was the first female student government president.

First job: Scooping ice cream

North Carolina’s challenge: The disparate opportunities for its urban and rural residents

Favorite passions: Supporting housing for all and women’s basketball

Favorite recent books: Red at the Bone by Jacqueline Woodson and The Dutch House by Ann Patchett

TERRY HUTCHENS

managing partner | Hutchens Law Firm

Fayetteville

Leading a 200-employee firm with more than 35 lawyers that he started 41 years ago, Hutchens focuses his practice on real estate matters. He is a graduate of N.C. State University and earned his MBA and law degrees from Wake Forest University.

C. MATTHEW KEEN

managing shareholder | Ogletree Deakins

Raleigh

A lecturer and contributor to North Carolina Employers’ Desk Manual, Keen has practiced labor and employment law for more than 30 years. He is a graduate of N.C. State University and UNC School of Law.

DAVID KIRBY

founding partner | Edwards Kirby

Raleigh

Kirby, 70, has handled many high-profile cases as a longtime partner of former U.S. Sen. John Edwards. He has bachelor’s and law degrees from UNC Chapel Hill.

North Carolina’s challenge: Two worlds exist in our state. We are not doing enough to bring families out of poverty, relieve hardships and level the playing field.

Best advice: If you always do the honorable thing and the right thing, you will sleep well at night.

Proud family accomplishment: My grandfather served 16 years in the state legislature, while my father served 12. My grandmother was in charge of the civilian workforce at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base during World War II. My mother was an East Carolina University trustee when the medical school was started.

Something surprising: When I am traveling alone, I turn up hard rock music to relax.

PAUL LAWRENCE

managing partner | Hedrick Gardner Kincheloe & Garofalo

Charlotte

Lawrence, 60, focuses his practice on civil litigation, employment law and workers’ compensation. He is a University of Scranton and Villanova University School of Law graduate.

Best advice: A customer on my childhood newspaper route let me know that the most important thing you can do in your job is to do your best.

Proud family accomplishment: My wife, Laura, is chief operating officer and general counsel for Safe Alliance, a nonprofit [agency] that helps victims of domestic violence and domestic assault.

Person you admire: Mahatma Gandhi

VALECIA MCDOWELL

partner | Moore & Van Allen

Charlotte

The first black female lawyer hired at the state’s largest law firm in 1998, McDowell, 47, co-chairs the firm’s white-collar, regulatory defense and investigations practice and is a former chair of the Charlotte Arts & Science Council. She has bachelor’s and law degrees from Duke University.

First job: Summer nanny to five kids younger than 6, including twins

Employer’s distinction: We’re a nationally recognized firm that routinely handles complex matters around the globe.

North Carolina’s challenge: Our urbanrural divide. All of us struggle with economic inequality, racial justice, health care and education.

Favorite passion: Enjoying and supporting the arts

BYRON KIRKLAND

managing partner | Smith Anderson

Raleigh

Kirkland, 60, works with venture-capital and private-equity funds and companies from many sectors at the largest Trianglebased law firm. He has bachelor’s and law degrees from UNC Chapel Hill.

First job: Working at a brake-shoe factory

Best advice: “We take care of the people, the products and the profits — in that order.”

(Jim Barksdale)

Proud family accomplishment: My two adult children, who are goal-oriented and have big hearts

DAN MCLAMB

founding partner | Yates, McLamb & Weyher

Raleigh

With a practice focused on commercial litigation and professional liability defense, McLamb is senior counsel to the firm that he helped start. He is a graduate of UNC Chapel Hill and UNC School of Law.

TOM MITCHELL

chair, management committee | Moore & Van Allen

Charlotte

Mitchell, 57, is chairman of the firm’s management committee and co-chairs its financial-services practice group and business development committee. A member of the firm since 1993, he has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois and is a Washington and Lee University School of Law graduate. He specializes in loan syndications.

Employer’s distinction: With more than 330 lawyers in more than 60 areas of focus, we are structured to effectively provide clients with a comprehensive suite of legal services.

JARED MOBLEY

managing partner | K&L Gates

Charlotte

Named to Best Lawyers in America for taxlaw work, Mobley leads the firm’s estate planning and trusts and estates group. He is a University of South Carolina, University of South Carolina School of Law and New York University School of Law graduate.

K&L Gates has nearly 1,700 lawyers and ranked as the 13th largest U.S. law firm, according to the National Law Journal

MARIFRANCES MORRISON

shareholder | Ogletree Deakins

Raleigh

A member of the national firm’s ninemember board of directors, Morrison works with Fortune 500 businesses on immigration issues. A frequently requested presenter on the topic, she also provides customized training to companies. She is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts and New England School of Law.

ALLEN ROBERTSON

managing partner | Robinson Bradshaw

Charlotte

The Harvard University Law School graduate is one of two North Carolinians to be president of the National Association of Bond Lawyers. The firm’s managing partner since 2015 and a member since 1989, he advises health care providers, educational institutions, banks and broker-dealers.

LESLIE PACKER

managing partner | Ellis & Winters

Raleigh

Packer, 59, practices in civil and high-end commercial litigation with a specialty in health care product liability. The graduate of Brown University and UNC School of Law serves on the N.C. Association of Defense Attorneys’ board of directors.

First job: Nursing assistant in a nursing home

Best advice: At the beginning of a difficult trial, my client said, “The only way over is through.” It applies to many situations.

Favorite recent book: The Autobiography of Martin Luther King Jr. by Clayborne

Carson

REID PHILLIPS

managing partner | Brooks Pierce

Greensboro

Phillips, 68, succeeded Ed Winslow as managing partner of the firm in 2016. He is a litigation attorney on a variety of matters including antitrust and copyright. He has a bachelor’s degree from UNC Chapel Hill and is a graduate of the University of Texas School of Law.

First job: At age 8, I grew Flint corn in my grandmother’s garden. At harvest time, I sold them for 25 cents per bundle.

Best advice: Be yourself.

Favorite passion: Mountain biking

Favorite book: The WEIRDest People in the World by Joseph Henrich

PERRY SAFRAN

president | Safran Law Offices

Raleigh

The construction law specialist is a trustee at N.C. State University and vice chair of the N.C. Turnpike Authority. He has a bachelor’s from N.C. State University, an MBA from Wake Forest University and a law degree from Campbell University.

First job: Construction laborer

North Carolina’s challenge: Continuing the critical role of public higher education

Best advice: “Never look down on any individual. We are all worthy.” (my dad)

Favorite passion: My grandchildren

People you admire: My dad and my fatherin-law, both Greatest Generation folks

Favorite recent book: Factfulness by Hans Rosling

Favorite music: Anything from the 1960s

Something surprising: I love classic cars.

JASON SOLOMON

partner-in-charge | Alston & Bird

Charlotte

The corporate law specialist earned a bachelor’s at UNC Chapel Hill and a law degree at Washington and Lee University. He practiced law in Delaware before coming to Charlotte in 2004. Alston & Bird is an international law firm with about 800 lawyers and based in Atlanta.

WYATT STEVENS

partner | Roberts & Stevens

Asheville

Stevens, 51, represents a diverse clientele, including the recreational sports industry. He has bachelor’s and law degrees from UNC Chapel Hill.

First job: Washing dishes

North Carolina’s challenge: Infrastructure and environmental protections

Proud family accomplishment: My two daughters

Favorite passion: Trail running

Person you admire: My father

Favorite music: Americana

Something surprising: I’m passionate about North Carolina history.

KEVIN WILLIAMS

president | Bell Davis Pitt

Winston-Salem

A member of the firm for more than 20 years, Williams assists clients with business, commercial, professional negligence and fiduciary disputes, representing them in federal and state courts. He is a UNC Chapel Hill and Wake Forest University School of Law graduate. Bell Davis Pitt has about 35 lawyers.

DEVON WILLIAMS

co-managing director | Ward and Smith

Raleigh

A graduate of the University of Maryland with a Campbell University law degree, Williams, 34, specializes in labor and employment law. She also is a member of the hemp law practice group.

First job: Helping customers at Patterson Farm Market & Tours in Rowan County

Employer’s distinction: We are united around the vision that we do what is best for our clients.

Best advice: God is always in control and has a plan. (my parents)

Favorite passion: My family

Favorite recent book: My grandmother’s journal

Something surprising: On my wedding day, as I was about to walk down the aisle, I slipped and fell down a flight of concrete steps. I was bleeding, and it was all over my veil and dress. My dad laughed and said, “Well, Dev, you’ve always had a way of making things interesting!” I use this story to ease anxious brides who are worried something will not go as planned. Something will go “wrong,” yet it will still be perfect.

MARSHALL WALL

managing partner | Cranfill Sumner & Hartzog

Raleigh

Part of the first class of North Carolina lawyers certified in privacy and information security, Wall, 46, is a graduate of UNC Chapel Hill and Campbell University Law School.

First job: Behind the counter at Davis Mutual Drugs in Raleigh

North Carolina’s challenge: Most urban counties are doing well, but many rural counties struggle. Sharing the state’s prosperity is critical to the future.

Favorite passion: Running

Person you admire: Royce Hathcock, Neighbor to Neighbor executive director in Raleigh

Something surprising: My sons and I are English Premier League soccer fans.

JAMES WYATT III

partner | Wyatt & Blake

Charlotte

Wyatt, 63, specializes in white-collar defense, whistleblower cases and classaction cases. He is a Vanderbilt University and Duke University School of Law graduate.

First job: Farm hand

Employer’s distinction: Taking clients who are probably facing the most catastrophic situation in their lives, earning their trust then delivering on it, no matter who they are of what they allegedly have done

North Carolina’s challenge: COVID’s impact on the businesses and individuals who are most vulnerable to an interruption of income

Proud family accomplishment: Everyone in our family has invested in outreach work.

JAMES YATES JR.

managing partner | Wyrick Robbins Yates & Ponton

Raleigh

With more than 40 years at the firm, Yates, 67, handles private-equity transactions for investors and companies, along with corporate transactions such as mergers and joint ventures. He is a UNC Chapel Hill and UNC School of Law graduate.

Employer’s distinction: Our firm is built on collaboration, mutual respect, high energy and being the best in all we undertake.

North Carolina’s challenge: Partisanship politics

Proud family accomplishment: Our daughters

Person you admire: My dad, 98, who worked until he was 85 and treats everyone with respect

LIFE SCIENCES

North Carolina has a fast growing life-sciences scene, with more than 67,000 employees and more than 770 companies. Industry leaders, such as Biogen, Bayer Crop Science, Grifols, Merck, Pfizer and PPD, have flocked to the state for its relatively low costs of living and doing business, strong research institutions and effective workforcedevelopment programs.

ARAVIND ASOKAN

founder, acting chief scientific officer | StrideBio

Durham

The Duke University professor’s gene therapy company raised $81.5 million in March. He moved to Duke in 2018 after many years at UNC Chapel Hill, where he earned a doctorate in chemistry. He co-founded Chapel Hill-based Bamboo Therapeutics, which sold for more than $200 million in 2016.

First job: Painting houses and construction

North Carolina’s challenge: Educating state officials about the transformative horizon if we accelerate gene therapy. It will happen but much faster if we educate those who have an important say in whether drugs and medicine get to people who need them.

Best advice: Just because research is published doesn’t mean it’s right. Don’t trust anyone else’s science until you do it yourself. (a graduate school professor)

People you admire: Parents who never stop fighting to find hope for their child’s disease.

Favorite music: Classical

Something surprising: My nephew and I own Eno River Farms, which sells pick-yourown berries, homemade ice cream and plants.

GRAY ARMSTRONG

senior director of operations | Pfizer

Sanford

The N.C. State University graduate oversees commercial and clinical efforts at the Lee County site. Pfizer invested $100 million for gene-therapy clinical trial materials production in 2017 and $500 million to produce gene therapies in 2019.

ANTHONY ATALA

director | Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine

Winston-Salem

Atala researches the use of healthy cells donated by patients to treat damaged tissue in bladders and other organs. The University of Louisville School of Medicine graduate has more than 250 patents. He chairs the urology department at Wake Forest University’s medical school.

JACK BAILEY

CEO | G1 Therapeutics

Durham

The Hobart College and UNC Chapel Hill graduate became CEO of the cancertherapies developer earlier this year. He has nearly 30 years of industry experience, most recently leading GlaxoSmithKline’s U.S. pharmaceuticals and vaccines business.

DOUG BURNS

president | Grifols Therapeutics

Clayton

Burns, a Purdue University and University of Delaware graduate, has two decades of biotech experience. In June, Grifols announced a $351.6 million investment and 300 more jobs at the Clayton campus. The planned site will meet demand for plasma-derived medicines.

BRIAN CAVENEY

chief medical officer, president | Labcorp Diagnostics

Burlington

Modern Healthcare named Caveney among health care’s 100 most influential people in 2020. He joined Labcorp in 2017 after stints at Duke University Medical Center and Blue Cross Blue Shield. He has law and medical degrees from West Virginia University and a master’s from UNC Chapel Hill.

JIM DATIN

president, CEO | BioAgilytix Labs

Durham

Datin, 58, recently announced a $61.5 million expansion at the medical contract research organization. He has led the company since 2013. Datin has a bachelor’s degree from Marshall University and an MBA from the University of New Haven.

First job: Delivering newspapers

Employer’s distinction: Our highly skilled employees and culture. We have employees from more than 50 countries working to cure diseases.

Person you admire: Robert Ingram, former CEO of GlaxoSmithKline

Favorite recent book: The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown

Favorite music: Classical

FRED ESHELMAN

founder | Eshelman Ventures

Wilmington

The High Point native is a leading biotech investor and philanthropist. He started PPD in 1985 and Furiex Pharmaceuticals, which sold for $1.4 billion in 2014. He has a bachelor’s degree from UNC Chapel Hill, where the pharmacy school bears his name. He earned a doctorate at the University of Cincinnati.

LIFE SCIENCES

VERN HAWKINS

president | Syngenta Crop Protection

Greensboro

The Indiana native started with a predecessor company of the agriculture chemical giant while attending Purdue University nearly 35 years ago. The Temple University MBA graduate has held his job since 2010. The Chinese-owned company said in March it would invest $68 million at the Gate City division headquarters.

JAMIE MACDONALD

CEO | Parexel International Durham

Macdonald has spent more than 25 years in the biopharmaceutical industry. A graduate of Heriot-Watt University in Scotland, he previously led Morrisvillebased INC Research, which is now Syneos Health. Parexel signed a three-year development agreement with Pfizer last year.

MARTIN MEESON

CEO | Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies

Morrisville

After 13 years with the biotech company, Meeson was named CEO in April 2020. The Newcastle University graduate recently announced a $2 billion cellculture factory in Holly Springs that is expected to employ more than 700 people. The company is owned by Japan’s FujiFilm and Mitsubishi.

CHAD HENRY

corporate vice president, general manager | Novo Nordisk

Clayton

The N.C. State University graduate, 49, heads the Danish company’s insulin factory, leading more than 800 employees. It spent $65 million there in 2018 to expand capacity. About 90% of its diabetes treatments are used domestically.

First job: Operating a bulldozer at N.C. State’s Centennial Campus

Employer’s distinction: We drive change to defeat diabetes and other serious chronic diseases.

North Carolina’s challenge: Prioritizing investments in water, waste-handling infrastructure and education

Proud family accomplishment: My wife of 23 years, Christy, who has been Teacher of the Year many times

PHANESH KONERU

founder, president, CEO | Exela Pharma Sciences

Lenoir

Koneru immigrated to the U.S. from India in 1982. He was a pharmacist and lawyer before founding his sterile-injectables company in 2005. He is a law graduate from the University of San Diego and Columbia University and has a doctorate from the University of Southern California.

SHEILA MIKHAIL

co-founder, CEO | AskBio

Hillsborough

Mikhail, 54, co-founded the company in 2002 as a UNC Chapel Hill spinoff. It was bought by Bayer for as much as $4 billion in October. She has a University of Chicago MBA and a law degree from Northwestern University.

Employer’s distinction: Our scientific co-founder demonstrated that adenoassociated virus could be cloned for therapeutic purposes.

North Carolina’s challenge: We need capital to de-risk technology, scale it up and build sustainable companies.

Proud family accomplishment: My daughter Megan, who is working on her Ph.D. and will help people with eating disorders

Something surprising: I suffered from a speech impediment.

KEVIN O’BRIEN

president for North America | Merz Therapeutics

Raleigh

O’Brien, 55, joined the company in 2017 after 16 years with Allergan. He has overseen FDA approval of two drugs that treat neurological conditions. He is a graduate of Western State College of Law.

Employer’s distinction: Our family culture and patient-centric approach are keys to our success. We focus on sustainability, not quarterly shareholder reports.

Favorite passion: Anything outside and active such as snow skiing

Something surprising: I have worked in more than 20 countries and lived in the U.S., Canada, Singapore and South Korea.

PAUL REA

senior vice president of agricultural solutions North America | BASF

Research Triangle Park

A New Zealand native and University of Sydney graduate, Rea joined BASF Australia in 2001, moving to the United States in 2004. He leads its RTP presence, integrating $9 billion of assets from Bayer in 2018.

LAURA HELMS REECE

CEO | Rho

Durham

Reece, 51, has a Ph.D. from UNC Chapel Hill. Since 2011, she has led the contractresearch company started by her parents.

First job: Checking data for allowance money

Employer’s distinction: Our work helps extend life, enhances health and improves quality of life. Rho has been a flexible, supportive organization for more than 35 years.

Person you admire: My grandmother was born “dirt poor” on an Arkansas farm, fought for her education, traveled the world and became a successful businesswoman. Her best advice: If I am the smartest person in the room, I need to find another room.

Favorite recent books: A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles and Caste by Isabel Wilkerson

PATRICK RITSCHEL

CEO | Atsena Therapeutics

Durham

Ritschel has more than 25 years of business development and management and technology licensing experience. Soon after Atsena launched last year, it raised $55 million for its work on reversing or preventing blindness. He is a graduate of the University of Illinois and Washington University.

MARTINE ROTHBLATT

chairwoman, CEO |

United Therapeutics

Research Triangle Park

After co-founding SiriusXM, Rothblatt turned to biotech to find a cure for her sick daughter. She is co-inventor on six patents for the drug Treprostinil, which treats high blood pressure. She holds degrees from UCLA and Royal College of Surgeons of England.

R. JUDE SAMULSKI

co-founder, president, chief scientific officer | AskBio

Durham

Samulski is among the state’s most acclaimed scientists with more than 200 patents for his virus therapy research. His biggest corporate successes include Bamboo Therapeutics, sold to Pfizer, and AskBio, which Bayer is acquiring. With a Ph.D. from the University of Florida, he led the Gene Therapy Center at UNC Chapel Hill for 25 years.

ADAM SCHECHTER

chairman, president, CEO | LabCorp

Burlington

After more than a decade at Merck, Schechter became LabCorp’s president and CEO in 2019 and chairman in 2020. It has performed more COVID-19 tests — 40 million — than any other commercial lab in the country over the past year. He is a La Salle University graduate.

LIFE SCIENCES

TAYLOR SCHREIBER

co-founder, CEO | Shattuck Labs

Durham

Schreiber earned a bachelor’s degree at Bucknell University and a medical degree from the University of Miami. Shattuck, which develops cancer treatments, raised $118 million last summer, expanding its locations in Durham and Austin, Texas. He previously was chief scientific officer at Chapel Hill-based Heat Biologics.

COLIN SHANNON

CEO | PRA Health Sciences

Raleigh

The City University in London graduate joined the drug-development services provider in 2007. In February, he announced that Ireland-based ICON was purchasing PRA for $12 billion. The deal is expected to close this year, when Shannon will join ICON’s board.

SCOTT UKNES

co-founder, co-CEO | AgBiome

Apex

With more than 40 scholarly works and 20 patents or patent applications to his name, Uknes, 60, has negotiated $450 million in research-anddevelopment deals and raised more than $500 million in equity capital. He earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Illinois and his Ph.D. at Washington University.

First jobs: Newspaper delivery and veterinarian technician

Employer’s distinction: AgBiome is uniquely positioned to give growers what they must have — safe, effective control of pests — and consumers what they demand — safe food sustainably produced with less or no synthetic pesticides.

Favorite passion: Cycling

DAVID SIMMONS

chairman, CEO | PPD

Wilmington

Since assuming his roles in 2012, Simmons, 56, has more than doubled the drug-development company’s workforce to 26,000. He’s a Carnegie Mellon University graduate. PPD went public in February 2020 and in April received a $17 billion takeover bid from Thermo Fisher Scientific.

Employer’s distinction: Our employees combine passion with purpose, and that fosters a company culture committed to success for us and our customers.

North Carolina’s challenge: Getting families, schools and businesses back on track after the COVID-19 pandemic

Best advice: Facts are facts and wishing for something doesn’t change reality.

Favorite recent book: Mason & Dixon by Thomas Pynchon

ERIC WARD

co-CEO | AgBiome Durham

Ward, 60, has 30 years of ag-biotech experience and more than 35 patents to his name. A graduate of Duke University and Washington University, his company searches for new uses of the plant microbiome.

First job: Building interior door units

Best advice: “When you have a lot of work to do, don’t commiserate with other people about how much work you have to do.” (my high school physics teacher)

Favorite passions: Cooking and road cycling

Person you admire: My best friend, co-founder and co-CEO Scott Uknes is a brilliant entrepreneur with boundless enthusiasm and a relentless desire to improve himself and those around him.

Favorite recent book: Churchill: Walking With Destiny by Andrew Roberts

Favorite music: Classical and Grateful Dead

Something surprising: I interviewed Frank Zappa for my high school newspaper.

MANUFACTURING

The backbone of the state’s economy since the 1880s, manufacturing makes up about a fifth of North Carolina’s total output. The industry also employs more than 10% of the state workforce — and would hire more if it could attract skilled staffers, many executives say. Honeywell, Nucor and Parkdale Mills are among the state’s marquee manufacturers.

SteelFab, Charlotte

DARIUS ADAMCZYK

chairman, CEO | Honeywell International

Charlotte

The native of Poland became an N.C. hero when he moved the company’s headquarters from New Jersey in 2018, two years after he became CEO. Adamczyk earned a Harvard MBA and engineering degrees from Michigan State and Syracuse. He oversees 113,000 employees worldwide.

LYNN BAMFORD

CEO | Curtiss-Wright Davidson

In January, Bamford succeeded David Adams to lead the 8,200-employee company, which has annual revenue of $2.5 billion. With a master’s in electrical engineering from George Mason University, she joined C-W in 2004 and has 30 years of experience in aerospace, commercial and defense industries.

MICHAEL BELL

vice president | Corning Optical

Communications

Charlotte

Bell, who earned an MBA from UNC Chapel Hill, succeeded Clark Kinlin last year as general manager of a key division. Bell joined Corning in 1991 in Hickory and was named cable manufacturing manager for Corning Cable Systems America in 2004. He served as a U.S. Navy submarine officer.

STEPHEN BRATSPIES

CEO | HanesBrands

Winston-Salem

Last summer, Bratspies succeeded Gerald Evans Jr. as CEO of the apparel company that has $6.6 billion in sales and 68,000 employees. A former Walmart chief merchandising officer, he is a graduate of Franklin & Marshall College and has a Wharton MBA.

JIM BRYAN

president | Fairystone Fabrics Greensboro

A Florida Southern College graduate, Bryan, 68, spent 17 years with Burlington Industries. He managed Fairystone for more than a decade before buying the business in 2011. Nearly half of its staff has tenure topping a decade.

Employer’s distinction: Fairystone is a founding member of Alamance Career Accelerator Program and a charter member of the Eastern Triad Workforce Initiative. [The company] is helping veteran workers with technical training.

Favorite passions: Reading Clive Cussler, listening to James Taylor, cooking, tasting wine, gardening, hunting and fishing

Something surprising: As a police officer in college, I guarded the mechanical sharks for Jaws

ALEX BERNHARDT

JR.

president, CEO | Bernhardt Furniture

Lenoir

The UNC Chapel Hill graduate is the fourth generation to run the famous furniture company formed in 1889. It has eight North Carolina factories and employs 1,540 people. He became president in 2009 and CEO in 2012.

KEVIN BOWMAN

president | Hickory Chair

Hickory

Formerly with the Stanley and Avalon furniture companies, the Florida State University graduate has led Hickory Chair since 2018. The 450-employee manufacturer formed in 2011 was part of Heritage Home Group, which filed for bankruptcy in 2018. Its owner is Rock House Farm Investments.

WES CARTER

president | Atlantic Packaging

Wilmington

Carter, 42, started as a floor-sweeper when he was 14. He went on the payroll as a sales manager after graduating from UNC Chapel Hill. Atlantic, founded by his grandfather 75 years ago, employs 1,000 employees at 18 locations in the United States and Caribbean.

Employer’s distinction: We are a family company focused on doing things the right way. Our employees truly care about each other, our customers and our suppliers.

Favorite passion: My passion for this job is driven by our ability to think creatively and collaborate with each other and across the supply chain. We always keep evolving and embracing challenges because we understand that there is always the opportunity to learn more.

Person you admire: My father. He taught me that who we are as people will be reflected in the organization that we create. He reminds me that the job is never finished. It’s a journey of solving complex problems and creating and sustaining relationships. If you do those well, the business will thrive, and you will thrive.

Favorite recent book: The Lion Trackers Guide to Life by Boyd Varty

TED DOHENY

president, CEO | Sealed Air

Charlotte

Named to his post in 2018, Doheny leads the company best known for Bubble Wrap. Its many products include equipment that helps automate packaging. The Cornell University and Purdue University graduate previously worked for Joy Global, a mining machinery company, and Ingersoll Rand.

FRANK DOWD IV

chairman | Charlotte Pipe and Foundry

Charlotte

A UNC Chapel Hill graduate, Dowd is part of the fourth generation to lead one of the biggest U.S. manufacturers of pipes and fittings. The company, founded in 1901, is moving its foundry from Charlotte to Stanly County with an investment topping $325 million.

MICHIMASA FUJINO

president, CEO | Honda Aircraft

Greensboro

Fujino turned a youthful dream sketched on an envelope into HondaJet, an innovative jet that retails for about $4.5 million and achieves 450 miles per hour. A University of Tokyo graduate who once had dreams of playing professional pingpong, he leads 1,500 workers in Greensboro.

MATT GREGORY

president | Burt’s Bees

Durham

Clorox spent nearly $1 billion for the maker of personal care products it calls “Earth friendly” in 2007 and put longtime staffer Gregory in charge in 2017. The University of Tennessee graduate oversees about 500 employees at its Durham headquarters and Morrisville factory.

GEOFF FOSTER

CEO, president | Core Technology

Molding

Greensboro

The New Jersey native came to the South to study at N.C. A&T State University. He worked for some large companies before starting his business in 2006. It molds electronic connectors, syringe components and other products for clients including BMW and Merck. He has earned honors such as Southeast Entrepreneur of the Year from Ernst & Young.

FRANK HARRISON III

chairman, CEO | Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated

Charlotte

Harrison started at the nation’s largest Coca-Cola bottler in 1977. A UNC Chapel Hill and Duke University MBA graduate, he has been CEO since 1996. His greatgrandfather founded the public company, which has 13 factories and distributes in 14 states. Annual revenue tops $5 billion.

STAN JEWELL

president, CEO | Renfro Brands

Mount Airy

Jewell leads one of the world’s largest sock manufacturers, selling brands such as Polo and Fruit of the Loom. The Georgia Tech graduate was named president in 2017 after serving as VF Corp.’s Central and South America president. He oversees more than 2,000 employees.

KEVIN KELLY

president | Genpak

Charlotte

The University of Vermont graduate was named president of the maker of foam takeout boxes, trays, plastic utensils, cups and food-service products in 2015. Two years later, he moved its headquarters, research and development, and a factory to Charlotte from Glen Falls, N.Y. Genpak is owned by Vancouver, British Columbiabased Jim Pattison Group, Canada’s second-largest private company.

ROBERT LUDDY

president | CaptiveAire Systems

Raleigh

Luddy, 75, oversees six factories and 90 sales offices nationwide. He’s a LaSalle University graduate and Army veteran who is responsible for starting several charter and private schools in North Carolina. The company, which makes commercial kitchen ventilation and firecontrol gear, was founded in 1976 and has annual sales topping $400 million.

First job: Pharmacy inventory and sales clerk

Employer’s distinction: We lead the kitchen ventilation system manufacturing industry by focusing on high quality and radical decentralization of sales and operational management. That has allowed us to expand throughout North America.

North Carolina’s challenge: Too much governmental overspending and a lack of quality opportunities in education

EUGENE LOWE III

president, CEO | SPX

Charlotte

Lowe has led the maker of cooling towers, boilers and other heating and air conditioning necessities since 2015, overseeing about 4,500 employees in 17 countries. A former Milliken & Co. executive, he has a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Tech and a Dartmouth MBA.

Best advice: To best serve society is to continuously improve oneself. One does this by seeking the truth, beauty and order.

Proud family accomplishment: Remaining faithful to the Catholic Church and [its] teachings

Favorite passion: Nature

Person you admire: Thomas Sowell for his brutal honesty

Favorite recent book: Empires of Light: Edison, Tesla, Westinghouse and the Race to Electrify the World by Jill Jonnes

Favorite music: Classical

Something surprising: After college, I was drafted by the Army, did basic training at Fort Bragg and served in Vietnam.

GREGG LOWE

president, CEO | Cree

Durham

Lowe joined the company in 2017 after serving as president of Freescale Semiconductor. The Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and Stanford School of Business graduate has focused Cree on semiconductors after selling its better-known light-emitting diode business for $300 million last year.

BRIAN MARAGNO

vice president, large generator product line & Siemens Energy

Charlotte Hub | Siemens Energy

Charlotte

The German multinational company makes gas and steam turbines in Charlotte with about 1,300 employees, down from 1,700 as utilities shift to renewables. The Mohawk College graduate has been with Siemens for about 15 years. He succeeded Kevin Poet as the local general manager last year.

JERRY MASTERS

chairman, CEO | Albemarle Corp.

Charlotte

Masters, 59, leads this specialty chemical maker, whose lithium, bromine and other materials are crucial to communications equipment and other products. With degrees from Georgia Institute of Technology and New York University, he leads about 5,400 employees and has customers in 100 countries. He was CEO of global contractor Foster Wheeler from 2011 to 2015.

Employer’s distinction: Our company has deeply ingrained values that strengthen our culture and help us seize growth opportunities.

Best advice: Former Barclays CEO Bob Diamond once said that five years at Credit Suisse First Boston early in his career was the most miserable time of his life. Still, it helped him realize that the most important things in business are people and culture. If you get the people and culture right, everything follows.

Favorite passions: Water skiing, paddle boarding and kayaking, plus golfing and gardening

Something surprising: I’m a thrill-seeker. My son and I have bungee jumped a few times, starting with the Victoria Falls bridge in Africa, which is 111 meters over the Zambezi River.

GUY MELDRUM

president, CEO | Reynolds American Winston-Salem

Meldrum has worked for Reynolds’ parent, British American Tobacco, for 16 years. He moved here last year after stints in Hong Kong and Australia. The Macquarie University graduate oversees 5,400 employees at what Fortune rates as one of the nation’s best workplaces.

GARY MICHEL

president, CEO | Jeld-Wen Charlotte

The Virginia Tech graduate, 58, joined Jeld-Wen, a $4 billion annual seller of windows and doors, in 2018, after 32 years at Ingersoll Rand. He oversees 117 plants in more than 20 countries, about 23,000 employees and $4 billion in annual revenue.

First jobs: Mowing lawns and working at a delicatessen, washing dishes, mopping floors, stocking shelves and filleting fish

Employer’s distinction: Quality, design and a focus on continuous improvement

North Carolina’s challenge: North Carolina has done a great job with manufacturing making up 18.3% of gross state product and 10.4% of the workforce. To remain competitive, we must support vocational training, community colleges, and apprentice and internship programs.

Best advice: Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated, particularly in business. Always look for opportunities to simplify systems and processes, and guard against complexity if it doesn’t add value.

THOMAS NELSON

chairman, CEO | National Gypsum Charlotte

Named National Gypsum’s vice chairman and chief financial officer in 1995 and CEO in 1999, Nelson, 57, has an MBA from Harvard and a bachelor’s from Stanford University. The building products manufacturer, best known for its wallboard, has annual revenue topping $1.5 billion. He’s a former director of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond.

First job: Caddying at a local golf club and mowing lawns

Employer’s distinction: We say our employees come for a job and stay for a career. They are the company’s backbone. We work together toward a common goal, driven by collaboration and open communication. We are never done investing in the safety, skills and promotion of our associates.

North Carolina’s challenge: Increasing third-grade reading proficiency. A student reaching proficiency is three times more likely to graduate from high school and enter postsecondary education or training than one who doesn’t. If not met, that student is four times more likely to drop out of high school.

Best advice: “Not all readers are leaders, but all leaders are readers.” (President Harry Truman)

Favorite recent book: The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson

WARD NYE

chairman, CEO | Martin Marietta

Materials

Raleigh

A Duke University and Wake Forest University School of Law graduate, Nye, 58, has chaired the 9,000-employee construction-aggregate company since 2014. He has been its CEO since 2010. He previously worked at Hanson Aggregates and as a construction-industry lawyer. He chairs the NC Chamber.

Employer’s distinction: No significant development — roads, subdivisions, offices, health care, schools — happens without our products and services. Even in pandemicchallenged 2020, Martin Marietta turned in its safest and most profitable year. Over nearly 30 years as a public company, we’ve never reduced or suspended our dividend.

North Carolina’s challenge: We need a long-term, sustainable transportation strategy that closes the gap between 20thcentury funding models and 21st-century investment needs. Our transportation investments currently rely on a few revenue streams, each tied to long-standing assumptions about our driving and how we purchase goods and services. But dramatic population growth and seismic technological, social and environmental disruptions have upended them, putting those revenue sources in jeopardy.

Best advice: A former law partner said to try to avoid the irretrievable decision.

Favorite recent book: The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson

MARVIN RILEY

president, CEO | EnPro Industries

Charlotte

Riley has led the 5,300-employee conglomerate that makes industrial products, from engine bearings to semiconductors, since 2019. A former General Motors executive, he is a graduate of Howard University, Johns Hopkins University and Harvard University’s advanced management program.

JEFF SCHEFFER

president, CEO | Universal Furniture

High Point

Scheffer has led the company since 2008. A furniture industry executive for 30 years, he arrived at Universal from Stanley Furniture, where he was president and CEO. He holds a business degree from Miami University. Hong Kong-based Samson Holding owns Universal.

R. GLENN SHERRILL JR.

chairman, CEO | SteelFab

Charlotte

Many well-known buildings have backbones supplied by the family-owned company, including Charlotte’s NASCAR Hall of Fame and Washington, D.C.’s National Museum of African American History and Culture. Sherrill, 50, is an N.C. State University graduate. Started in 1955, SteelFab has 1,200 employees and 15 locations.

First job: A fitter’s helper in our Charlotte plant

Employer’s distinction: We try to treat all of our stakeholders, employees, vendors and clients like we want to be treated.

North Carolina’s challenge: Finding young people who want to work with their hands in construction or manufacturing

LEIB OEHMIG

president, CEO | Glen Raven

Burlington

Oehmig, 54, succeeded the company founder’s grandson Allen Gant Jr. as CEO in 2017. The Clemson University graduate joined the company in 1989 and became chief operating officer in 2013. Its fabrics are used in many applications including outdoor furniture and the American flag planted on the moon in 1969.

First job: Glen Raven after college

People you admire: First responders, health care workers and teachers who wear the personal protective equipment that we make

Favorite passion: Spending time on the water. Growing up, my family’s best memories were made on a boat.

Best advice: If you get up every day, work hard, work smart, do the right thing, keep your word and treat others with respect, the profits will come.

Proud family accomplishment: I am proud to be the CEO of a company that my grandfather founded and my dad and uncles ran for many years.

Favorite passions: Playing golf and spending time with my sons

People you admire: Winston Churchill because he was fearless, quick-witted and passionate. And my mom and dad.

Favorite recent book: Bourbon Empire by Reid Mitenbuler

Favorite music: The Eagles

MANUFACTURING

ALEX SHUFORD III

CEO | RHF Investments

Hickory

The Pomona College graduate is the third generation of his family to lead Rock House Farm, whose furniture brands include Century and Highland House. More than 1,300 employees work for the business, which dates to 1947.

EDDIE SMITH

owner, CEO | Grady-White Boats Greenville

The UNC Chapel Hill graduate, 78, bought the boat builder in 1968, nine years after it was founded. Its 300 workers turn out boats from 18 feet to 45 feet that cost as much as $1.2 million. Grady-White is frequently honored for its community contributions. In 2013, he auctioned off his father’s vintage Ferrari for $27.5 million and gave the proceeds to charity.

First job: Paper route

Employer’s distinction: Internationally recognized brand for quality, performance and value

North Carolina’s challenge: The extreme partisanship and division in state government. We need elected officials to work together and accomplish things that are in the best interest of all.

Best advice: Have integrity, treat employees and customers well and focus on quality. (my father)

JIM SHUFORD

CEO | STM Industries

Hickory

Shuford joined the family’s Shurtape division in 1994, two years after completing a UNC MBA. LIke his brother, Stephen, he followed the company rule of working outside the business for five years before joining its staff. He’s helped expand its brands, including Duck and Painter’s Mate.

STEPHEN SHUFORD

vice chairman | STM Industries

Hickory

STM is the holding company of the world’s second-largest maker of tape. Shuford, 52, shares leadership with brother Jim and other family members. He is a Princeton University and UNC Chapel Hill MBA graduate. He is a director of the Catawba County Economic Development Corp. and the county’s K-64 career development project.

North Carolina’s challenge: An aging population, increasing urbanization and reluctance among younger workers to work in manufacturing will hinder companies to the extent that the “talent gap” is not addressed.

Proud family accomplishment: Our past and present philanthropic support of various nonprofits

Favorite recent book: Farther Than Any Man: The Rise and Fall of Captain James Cook by Martin Dugard

Proud family accomplishment: Our philanthropy

Favorite passions: Spending time with family, boating, fishing and hunting

Person you admire: Theodore Roosevelt, whose incredible vision included conserving wildlife and setting aside large tracts of land

Favorite recent book: The Tuscarora War by David La Vere

Favorite music: Country western

LEON TOPALIAN

president, CEO | Nucor

Charlotte

Part of the largest U.S. steel producer since 1996, the Massachusetts Maritime Academy graduate became president in 2019 and CEO in January 2020. Topalian has held company posts in Australia and South Carolina. Annual revenue exceeds $20 billion.

CHARLES TREADWAY

president, CEO | CommScope

Hickory

The former CEO of Accudyne Industries was selected to succeed longtime leader Eddie Edwards at the communications networking company last October. The Harvard MBA and Clemson University master’s graduate oversees about 30,000 employees. CommScope had annual revenue of $8.4 billion in 2020.

ANDERSON WARLICK

chairman, CEO | Parkdale Mills

Gastonia

The Citadel graduate, 63, has invested $800 million in technology to modernize operations and control energy costs over the past 15 years. Privately held Parkdale Mills makes spun yarn at 29 plants in the U.S., Mexico and South America. It is the largest consumer of cotton in the U.S.

Best advice: “Patience? Look at me! I’ve got plenty of patience. Know why? I’ve never used any of it.” (Duke Kimbrell, my father-inlaw and a former Parkdale Mills CEO)

Proud family accomplishment: Two children, five grandchildren and seeing Duke Kimbrell selected by Textile World magazine as one of the two most influential textile executives of the 20th century

Favorite passions: Duck hunting and golf

HOWARD WOLTZ III

chairman, president, CEO | Insteel Industries

Mount Airy

Woltz has helped build Insteel into the largest U.S. maker of steel wire reinforcing products. The UNC Chapel Hill graduate started at the public company in 1978 and was named CEO in 1991. Revenue is expected to top $525 million this year. His father, Howard Woltz Jr., started the company in 1953.

JORGE YOUNG

president, CEO | DAK Americas

Waxhaw

Young, who earned an MBA from Wharton, was named CEO in 2012 after working for the largest U.S. maker of polyethylene terephthalate, or PET, since its 2001 founding. A graduate of Tecnológico de Monterrey University, Young oversees 1,300 employees in North Carolina for the company. It is owned by Mexico’s Alfa conglomerate.

MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS

Few industries are undergoing such rapid change as the media, with the influence of traditional newspapers and broadcasters waning. Out-of-state owners largely dominate North Carolina’s media landscape. Key exceptions are Capitol Broadcasting and Curtis Media Group, two family-owned businesses that are both based in Raleigh.

SHANNON ATKINSON

regional vice president, field operations | Charter Communications Waxhaw

The Indiana University graduate oversees tech support for the Carolinas and parts of Maryland and Virginia with more than 2.5 million broadband customers.

Atkinson, 50, was a longtime area vice president of operations at Time Warner Cable before it was acquired by Charter in 2016.

Employer’s distinction: Charter invests in its employees and network, expanding offerings and improving service.

Best advice: A previous leader of mine said to be successful, you must work hard, be resilient, hire people more talented than yourself and invest in your employees.

Favorite passion: Travel

Favorite recent book: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell

JIM GOODMON

CEO | Capitol Broadcasting Co.

Charlotte

A dominant figure in Triangle and state civic and business affairs for decades, Goodmon left Duke University early, later enlisting in the Navy. He learned about broadcasting by working with his grandfather, Capitol founder A.J. Fletcher, and became CEO in 1979. With WRAL-TV and WRAL.com as its base, Capitol has diversified in real estate through Durham’s American Tobacco Historic District and by owning the Durham Bulls baseball team. Goodmon has been a proponent of Triangle regionalism and progressive causes in North Carolina.

GERALD JOHNSON

publisher, CEO | Charlotte Post

Publishing

Charlotte

Johnson has been CEO since 1986 of the minority-owned newspaper that empowers the Queen City’s Black community. A master’s degree graduate of Villanova University, he was previously a bank computer programmer. He’s been a director at Theater Charlotte and Discovery Place.

TIMOTHY BILTZ

CEO | Segra

Charlotte

Biltz is a veteran telecom executive who leads a fast-growing independent fiber network operator. He joined Segra predecessor Lumos Networks in 2012. Earlier in his career, he was chief operating officer at Cary-based SpectraSite, a tower company, and Greensboro-based Vanguard Cellular Systems, a mobile phone operator. Segra is majority owned by Swedish private equity group EQT.

DONALD CURTIS

chairman, CEO | Curtis Media Group

Raleigh

Curtis started in broadcasting as a Gastonia teenager. His company now owns more than 60 AM and FM signals across North Carolina, ranking among the biggest independent U.S. radio operators. He pledged $21 million to UNC Chapel Hill’s media school in 2018.

JOE O’CONNOR

president, CEO | WFAE Public Radio

Charlotte

A Georgetown University and Boston University graduate, O’Connor earned five Emmy Awards during his 22 years with ABC News. He was general manager of Rhode Island Public Radio before joining WFAE in 2015. Since then, revenue and staffing have increased significantly at the National Public Radio affiliate.

CATHY PICHE

area president | Crown Castle

Charlotte

A senior N.C.-based executive at the biggest U.S. cell tower company, Piche oversees development of towers and fiber networks nationwide. She has bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Michigan State University.

MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS

ROBIN QUILLON

regional president | Adams Publishing

Raleigh

In 2019, Quillon became a senior N.C. leader of Minneapolis-based Adams, which owns 22 daily and weekly newspapers across the state including in Boone, Greenville and Rocky Mount. The Virginia native previously spent 30 years working for several newspaper companies as a publisher or advertising director.

WHITNEY SHAW

president, CEO | American City Business Journals

Charlotte

In 2009, Shaw succeeded his late father, Ray, to lead the publisher of more than 40 local business newspapers and websites, including in Charlotte, the Triad and the Triangle. New York’s Newhouse family has owned ACBJ since 1995. Shaw worked for The Charlotte News and started Business North Carolina in 1981 before joining his father to build ACBJ. He has a bachelor’s degree from Wake Forest University and a master’s from UNC Chapel Hill.

ALBERT “TREY” RABON

North Carolina president | AT&T

Wake Forest

A University of South Carolina graduate, Rabon took his post in 2019 after eight years leading the media giant’s public policy efforts in Raleigh. He has worked for AT&T for more than 20 years. He has bachelor’s and MBA degrees from the University of South Carolina.

NATALIA SANCHEZ

president | Norsan Media

Charlotte

The Santa Clara University graduate began her career with family-owned Norsan Group as an event coordinator. She now oversees the broadcasting company, which operates more than 20 Spanish language radio stations in Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas.

PAM SANDER

Southeast regional editor, Wilmington StarNews executive editor | Gannett

Wilmington

The Clemson University graduate was assigned last year to oversee 21 newsrooms in the Carolinas, West Virginia, Virginia, and Georgia for McLean, Va.based Gannett. Five N.C. newspapers are under her watch, including the Wilmington paper where she’s worked since 1994.

ROBYN TOMLIN

Southwest regional editor | McClatchy

Chapel Hill

Tomlin began her career as a young mother putting herself through UNC Chapel Hill. She was named McClatchy’s Carolinas regional editor in 2019, overseeing the Charlotte and Raleigh newspapers. Earlier in her career she worked at the Asheville and Wilmington newspapers. McClatchy was acquired by New York-based hedge fund Chatham Asset Management last year.

TED WILLIAMS

CEO | Charlotte Agenda; general manager | Axios Local Charlotte

The Washington & Lee University graduate took $50,000 and his experience at The Charlotte Observer to launch the Charlotte Agenda digital newsletter in 2015. Washington, D.C.-based newsletter publisher Axios bought the business earlier this year for $5 million. He is now leading expansions in Minneapolis and other cities.

NONPROFITS & PHILANTHROPIES

Industry consolidation has left many North Carolina cities with fewer corporate executives empowered to offer civic leadership. In their place, leaders of nonprofit groups such as the Foundation For The Carolinas in Charlotte and Asheville’s Dogwood Health Trust are taking key roles in guiding local communities. Proceeds from the tobacco industry continue to fill a philanthropic duty in the state through the Duke Endowment and Reynolds family-related foundations.

The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation raises private funding for the Blue Ridge Parkway.

ELIZABETH BRAZAS

president, CEO | Community Foundation of Western North Carolina

Asheville

A Davidson College and University of South Carolina School of Law graduate, Brazas oversees more than $15 million of annual charitable giving. She previously worked in the financial-services industry for Wachovia, Deloitte and Morgan Stanley.

AMY OLIVER COOKE

CEO | The John Locke Foundation

Raleigh

The supporter of free markets and limited government took her post in 2019 after leading a similar public policy group in Denver. Her husband, John, is a Colorado state senator. Cooke, 57, has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri and a master’s from the University of Northern Colorado.

First job: Teaching swimming lessons

Employer’s distinction: We promote freedom, so that every person has the opportunity to thrive.

North Carolina’s challenge: The need to educate recent transplants on the policies that have made our state such an attractive place to live. Our legislative culture of fiscal responsibility, low tax burdens and prudent spending have created an attractive economic environment.

Best advice: A dear friend offered wise counsel regarding being a woman in the workplace: “Be a lady, not a prude.”

Favorite recent book: Apocalypse Never by Michael Shellenberger

Favorite music: Country and AM hits from the 1960s and 1970s

Something surprising: I collect old cookbooks, but I rarely cook.

LAURA GERALD

president | Kate B. Reynolds

Charitable Trust

Winston-Salem

Gerald has led the $530 million asset trust since 2016. After earning a medical degree from Johns Hopkins University and a master’s in public health from Harvard, she was a pediatrician in Robeson County for nine years. She is a former state health director.

RICK GLAZIER

executive director | North Carolina Justice Center

Raleigh

A Penn State University and Wake Forest University School of Law graduate, Glazier joined the nonprofit in 2015 after 13 years as a Democratic state representative. He’s a former chair of the Cumberland County school board. The center’s mission to promote economic and social justice.

FRANKLIN GRAHAM

president, CEO | Samaritan’s Purse Boone

The Appalachian State University graduate has become an evangelical leader and missionary, following the path of his father. Graham has led the relief group since 1979 and is also CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, which is expanding its Charlotte museum. Samaritan’s Purse has assets of more than $750 million.

MAURICE “MO” GREEN

executive director | Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation

Greensboro

Green, 54, who has bachelor’s and law degrees from Duke University, came to the private family foundation in 2016. He’d spent the previous seven years as superintendent of Guilford County Schools. The foundation has invested more than $650 million since its start in 1936. It has assets of more than $300 million.

Favorite passions: Reading and watching sports

Favorite recent book: Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

Favorite music: R&B

BRIAN HAMILTON

Founder | Brian Hamilton Foundation

Raleigh

Since selling his financial software firm Sageworks to Accel-KKR in 2018, Hamilton, 57, has focused on helping build his Inmates to Entrepreneurs nonprofit. His investment firm acquired a Canadian videoconferencing company in January.

First job: Landscaping at age 5

North Carolina’s challenge: Parity of economic and educational opportunities. We don’t pay enough attention to those in need.

Best advice: Treat people the way you want to be treated.

Proud family accomplishment: My boys are good people.

Favorite passion: Fishing in the Gulf Stream Person you admire: Abraham Lincoln

MARY HOLMES

executive director | Cumberland Community Foundation

Fayetteville

The foundation she’s led since 1997 topped $100 million in assets last year, which board President Kelly Puryear called a key community milestone. Holmes was a banker before joining the organization. She has a bachelor’s degree from Wake Forest University and a UNC Chapel Hill MBA.

THOMAS LAWRENCE

president | The Leon Levine Foundation

Charlotte

The foundation formed in 1980 by the Family Dollar retail chain founder is among Charlotte’s most active philanthropies supporting education, health care, human services and Jewish values. Lawrence is a University of Richmond graduate who joined Leon Levine’s family office and the foundation in 2002.

MICHAEL MARSICANO

CEO | Foundation For The Carolinas

Charlotte

Marsicano, 65, joined the foundation in 1999 after a decade leading the Charlotte Arts & Science Council. The Duke University graduate has helped grow its assets to $3.1 billion from $250 million. He was named No. 1 on Charlotte Magazine’s 2017 50 Most Powerful People in Charlotte list. In 2018, NonProfit Times named him one of the top 50 U.S. nonprofit executives.

First job: Installing roofs

North Carolina’s challenge: The increasing polarization of our politics along red and blue lines

Proud family accomplishment: Thanks to the pandemic lockdown, my wife and I have discovered that we can live together in retirement.

Favorite recent book: All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

PAUL LESSARD

president | High Point Community Foundation

High Point

Lessard was hired as the founding president in 1998 and has overseen growth in assets from $5 million to more than $120 million. He has a bachelor’s degree from High Point University and a master’s in fine arts from UNC Greensboro.

RHETT MABRY

CEO | Duke Endowment

Charlotte

The Duke University master’s degree graduate joined the organization in 1992 and became president in 2016. Since J.B. Duke started it in 1924, the endowment has distributed more than $4 billion to higher education, health care, child services and rural churches. It had assets of $3.8 billion as of 2019.

JIM MELVIN

CEO | Joseph M. Bryan Foundation

Greensboro

Long called “Mr. Greensboro,” the former mayor and retired banker has been involved in funding the Gate City’s downtown baseball stadium, massive industrial sites and many other projects. The UNC Chapel Hill graduate, 87, joined the foundation as CEO in 1996. He had previously led 1st Home Federal Savings and Loan for a decade.

SUSAN MIMS

interim CEO | Dogwood Health Trust

Asheville

The trust, which was created with $1.5 billion from the 2019 sale of Mission Health, named Mims as interim CEO after the departure of Anthony Chiang. She is a veteran leader in Asheville area health care at Mission and Buncombe County. She has medical and master’s degrees from UNC Chapel Hill.

Employer’s distinction: Dogwood Health Trust’s purpose is to improve the health and well-being of western North Carolina’s residents and communities. It focuses on the causes and drivers of health.

North Carolina’s challenge: The pandemic will have longstanding ramifications to lifelong health and well-being. It revealed many systemic problems and uncovered disparities in health and social issues that disproportionately impact our communities of color.

Best advice: We tend to quickly assess situations and make assumptions. When we take time to wonder why someone acted that way, it can lead to building connections with people who may enrich our lives.

LORI O’KEEFE

president, CEO | Triangle Community Foundation

Durham

With a bachelor’s and MBA from the State University of New York, O’Keefe joined the nonprofit in 2005 and became its president and CEO in 2012. Assets have grown to more than $250 million during her tenure.

MARY CLAUDIA “MC” BELK PILON

president and board chairwoman | John M. Belk Endowment

Charlotte

The Roanoke College graduate, 47, worked for her family’s department-store chain for 12 years before joining the endowment named after her father. She has helped shift the group’s strategy to focus on postsecondary education. In 2020, she received the I.E. Ready Award, the highest honor bestowed by the State Board of Community Colleges.

North Carolina’s challenge: Responding to the pandemic and our nation’s racial awakening. The state must capitalize on its excellent education infrastructure and improve education delivery and support to students, better preparing them for college. We also need more residents to complete college, earning degrees and credentials that align with the needs of industry and businesses.

Best advice: While listening to a flight attendant recommend donning your oxygen mask first then helping others in the event of an emergency, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice had an “aha” moment. She had been prioritizing others at the expense of herself. She vowed to start every day by identifying where she needed “oxygen,” so she could be the best version of herself in support of others.

Favorite recent book: Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg

HENRY WALKER SANDERS

president | Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro

Greensboro

A Sewanee: The University of the South graduate, Sanders, 55, has led the group since 1999. Formed in 1983, it has assets of $300 million and granted $35 million last year.

Employer’s distinction: We help fulfill philanthropic dreams and address the community’s critical issues.

Best advice: Never make a judgment of a person based on who they hang out with, how they dress or what their position is. Base it on your personal relationship.

Favorite passions: Entertaining, cooking and traveling

Favorite music: Bob Dylan

LISA PURCELL

interim president | Winston-Salem Foundation

Winston-Salem

Purcell, a University of Georgia and University of North Texas graduate, had been the $620 million asset group’s executive vice president since 2006. She became interim president last fall after longtime leader Scott Wierman joined Hilton Head Island, S.C.’s foundation. She previously worked for Hanesbrands.

JENNIFER TOLLE WHITESIDE

president, CEO | North Carolina Community Foundation

Raleigh

Since 2007, she has led the $290 million asset group that supports foundations in smaller N.C. communities. The group was initiated by former First Citizens Bancshares CEO Lewis “Snow” Holding. Tolle Whiteside previously was executive director of Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

The nitty-gritty work of business rarely occurs without significant involvement of accountants, architects, engineers, marketers and other consultants. This section includes a diversity of skilled leaders representing both homegrown and international businesses and partnerships. North Carolina’s competitive economic advantages and increasing national prominence is helping spur expansion by many professional-services firms.

16th floor gallery of Little Diversified Architectural Consulting, Charlotte office

JENNIFER APPLEBY

president, chief creative officer | Wray Ward

Charlotte

Appleby, 56, joined Wray Ward, one of Charlotte’s largest creative agencies, as the senior art director in 1993. The Penn State graduate has been the top executive since 2001.

Employer’s distinction: Wray Ward offers an incredible platform through which to give back. Through our FORM internship and EmpoWWer service-grant programs, we’re able to use our strategic, creative and mentorship talents for good, supporting our communities through countless initiatives and shaping the next generation of marketing-communications professionals.

Best advice: My father taught me through his actions the importance of getting involved in and giving back to the community. My volunteer leadership with organizations including United Way, Arts & Science Council of Charlotte, Charlotte Center City Partners and my current role with Charlotte Mecklenburg Library have allowed me to give back to strengthen all corners of the community. Following in my father’s footsteps has enriched my life in so many ways, including personal growth, building lasting relationships, and being a role model for the next generation of volunteer leaders.

Proud family accomplishment: My husband made the ultimate sacrifice 22 years ago, stepping away from his career to be a stay-at-home dad. His presence, love and involvement in our daughters’ academic and sports activities have had a remarkable effect on the bright young women they are today. It also allowed me to focus on my career and business.

Favorite music: Dance, funk and anything from the ’80s always makes me happy.

PEGGY BROOKHOUSE

founder | BROOKHOUSE

Charlotte

The University of Tennessee graduate, 58, founded the brand-development company in March after more than two decades at Luquire George Andrews, where she most recently served as president and partner. In 2020, LGA claimed eight American Advertising Federation District 3 Awards. She was named Charlotte BusinessWoman of the year by Queens University in 2019.

Best advice: Empathy matters most. (advice from my parents, by example)

Favorite recent book: How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi

Something surprising: I’m terribly claustrophobic. On the rare occasions I’m on an elevator these days, I very much appreciate the reduced capacity requirement.

GARY CLINE

president, managing principal | Cline Design

Raleigh

The UNC Charlotte graduate has more than 36 years of experience in the architecture industry, founding Cline Design in 1989. In 2020, the firm’s projects of note include the mixed-use project Peace Raleigh Apartments and the corporate headquarters for golf-grip manufacturer Golf Pride in Pinehurst.

MATTHEW BEACH

executive vice president, critical infrastructure | Parsons

Charlotte

Beach oversees $1.7 billion in annual revenue through Parsons’ Charlotte-based critical infrastructure unit, which includes roads, highways, bridges, aviation, rail and transit, and utilities. Beach, who has a master’s degree from Boston University and a bachelor’s from the University of Colorado, joined the Centreville, Va.based company in 2008 and assumed his current position in 2019.

NEIL DEANS

senior vice president | Kimley-Horn

Raleigh

Deans joined the engineering company as a marketing manager after graduating from N.C. State University in 1993. He now oversees business development across 10 Southeast offices. In 2020, Kimley-Horn was named among the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For. The company was founded in Raleigh in 1967.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

MALCOMB COLEY

U.S. central growth market leader, Charlotte managing partner | Ernst & Young Charlotte

With a bachelor’s degree and an MBA from UNC Wilmington, Coley, 56, oversees 1,700 staffers for the grant consultancy. He also partnered with former Duke Energy executive Lloyd Yates and Hugh McColl Jr. to form the Bright Hope Capital investment firm to back Black- and Hispanic-owned businesses. Its first deal was to buy Charlotte’s R.J. Leeper Construction.

Best advice: Focus on the things that I can change, and do it robustly and proudly so at the end of the day I can answer, ”What will be my legacy?” (retired EY partner Tom Hough)

Proud family accomplishment: My parents and in-laws and the commitments and sacrifices they made to ensure our paths and journey would be easier than theirs

Person you admire: [Former Atlanta Mayor] Maynard Jackson. He did what was right despite all odds. He ran a major Southern city that helped boost the world’s busiest airport, allowed minorities to do business with the government, hosted the Olympic Games and attracted people to the Black mecca known as ATL.

Favorite recent book: The Dead Are Arising: The Life of Malcolm X by Les Payne and Tamara Payne

Favorite music: Hip-hop

Something surprising: I’m super competitive. Just ask my daughter, Tanna, about our word game competition. She beats me 75% of the time, but I will never give up.

JEFF FLOYD

principal, vice president, and Charlotte office leader | LS3P Charlotte

Floyd’s architectural clients have included The Bissell Cos. and Spectrum Properties. With degrees from UNC Charlotte and N.C. State University, Floyd, 66, joined LS3P’s board in 2019.

Employer’s distinction: LS3P strives to empower all its employees to embellish their creative abilities and accomplish goals and position them within a sector of work they are passionate about.

Proud family accomplishment: All my children are well educated, fulfilled in their careers, and have meaningful and happy lives.

Favorite passions: Quail hunting and dog training

Person you admire: H.C. Bissell has been a great mentor.

RICK FRENCH

chairman, CEO | French West

Vaughan

Raleigh

Founded in 1997, FWV now employs more than 100 public-relations, advertising and digital-media experts in Raleigh, New York City, Los Angeles and Tampa. A graduate of Oakland University, French, 58, was inducted into the N.C. Media and Journalism Hall of Fame in 2018. He also is a co-owner of the Daytona Tortugas minor league baseball team and manages Prix Productions, a feature film and documentary company.

First job: Newspaper carrier as a kid. My first professional position was as a staff reporter at a community newspaper chain in the Detroit area.

TURAN DUDA

founding principal | Duda|Paine Architects Durham

A graduate of N.C. State University with a master’s from Yale, Duda met founding partner Jeffrey Paine while working for famed architect César Pelli. Formed in 1997, Duda|Paine designed N.C. State’s Talley Student Union and Dimensional Place in Charlotte.

JOYCE FITZPATRICK

owner | Fitzpatrick Communications

Raleigh

Fitzpatrick is a veteran public affairs and crisis management consultant to many Tar Heel companies. She is on the boards of the North Carolina Museum of Art, Lucy Daniels Foundation and Hussman School of Journalism and Mass Communications at UNC Chapel Hill, her alma mater.

Best advice: Take care of your business properly so that it can properly take care of you. Lee Trone, former chairman of Trone Advertising in Greensboro, gave me that advice. Too many entrepreneurs start a business for the wrong reasons — to create a job or enrich themselves. That should never be the motivation for starting anything. When giving speeches, I advise attendees that as the owner or CEO, you sit in last position, not first. Your first obligation is to take care of your customers, employees and infrastructure needs, leaving sufficient cash in the business to comfortably fund operations through any unforeseen downturns. After you’ve done the right things to give your business the best chance for success, you can look at your own interests.

Favorite passion: I play year-round in men’s ice hockey, baseball and softball leagues.

Favorite music: Rock ‘n’ roll (French is on the national board of trustees of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame; Buddy Holly Educational Foundation; the Texas Heritage Songwriters Association and Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend’s charity, Teen Cancer America.)

Something surprising: I have four major motion pictures in development, including a Buddy Holly-inspired biopic on the birth of rock ‘n’ roll and a survival drama that I’m producing with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

JOHN GAULDEN

principal, managing director | Gensler

Charlotte

Gaulden has developed strong contacts with major businesses and developers over a 30-plus year architectural career. With a bachelor’s degree from Clemson University and a master’s from Rice University, he’s won design excellence awards from the American Institute of Architects and the Building Owners and Managers Association.

MATTIAS KIHLMAN

executive vice president | Alten Group, XDIN

Greensboro

The longtime executive of XDIN, a Swedish engineering company owned since 2008 by the Paris-based Alten Group, counts Greensboro’s Volvo Trucks as a key client. The company employs more than 200 people in the Triad. He’s a graduate of Sweden’s Högskolan i Halmstad College and Chalmers University of Technology.

GREGG KIEHL

partner, Carolinas market leader | RSM

Charlotte

Kiehl serves as the accounting firm’s tax leader for the Southeast region and is on the Chicago-based company’s U.S. board of directors. Kiehl is a master’s graduate of UNC Chapel Hill. He joined the firm in 2004 after working for Deloitte in Texas.

JOHN KOMISIN

chairman | Little Charlotte

Leading multiple firmwide projects, Komisin, 67, brings four decades of experience specializing in office and mixed-use design. A graduate of Penn State University, he advocates for sustainable design and green building projects addressing policy issues at multiple government levels. Komisin received the Green Building Champion Award and General Excellence in Sustainable Leadership Award for his initiatives.

Best advice: As a young architect almost 40 years ago, I had a big problem on a job site. I was a bit rattled and sought advice from the director of architecture at the firm where I was working. After I explained the situation to him, he leaned back in his chair and lit a cigarette. He took a big long drag, then looked at me with a bit of a grin on his face and said, ”Are they shooting at you?” He had been a paratrooper on D-Day and compared to jumping out of a plane into a hail of machine-gun fire, it really wasn’t such a big deal.

Favorite passion: I’m an oil painter, mostly cityscapes.

Favorite recent book: The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson and Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson. They demonstrate that there is no single style of effective leadership.

Favorite music: ’70s rock

PAUL KOCH

vice president | Stantec Consulting Services

Raleigh

Koch, 53, overseas a five-state region with about 15 offices and 600 employees. The 22,000-employee company based in Edmonton, Alberta, is rated one of the world’s best employers by Forbes and Bloomberg. A specialist in highway and rail projects, he has bachelor’s and master’s engineering degrees from N.C. State University.

First job: Nighttime cleaning/janitorial duties for an office building

Employer’s distinction: Everyone from our newest employee to our CEO lives our core values: we put people first, we are better together, we are driven to achieve and we do the right thing. We are a company that ”walks the talk” on important issues. We have inclusion and diversity councils that help us become an organization where every individual is welcomed and valued, and differences are celebrated. Connecting with our communities outside of work is also encouraged and accessible with flexible work schedules.

North Carolina’s challenge: Recent transportation funding shortfalls have exposed our vulnerability to storm events and the lack of dependable funding, compounded by the drop in gas tax revenue due to the pandemic. North Carolina is a destination on everyone’s radar, so it is crucial that we maintain an infrastructure of water, transportation, broadband communications and energy to maximize our growth potential and promote economic and educational equity across the state.

Proud family accomplishment: While our son and daughter have accomplished much academically and athletically, my wife and I are most proud of their character. They have been consistently called out by other parents, friends and teammates for doing the right thing, being kind and treating others fairly.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

JOHN LUCEY

president, CEO | McKim & Creed

Raleigh

Lucey succeeded co-founder Michael Creed as CEO at the nearly 600-employee engineering firm in 2014. He has a master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh. In October, McKim & Creed acquired Matchpoint Water Asset Management, the largest U.S. water-leak recovery and loss-detection company.

BONNIE MCELVEEN-HUNTER

CEO | Pace Communications

Greensboro

Drawn to North Carolina for a bank job, Hunter started a magazine company in 1973. Today Pace produces marketing content for many large companies and ranks among the 200 largest U.S. womanowned businesses. Hunter chaired the American Red Cross and was an ambassador to Finland from 2001 to 2003.

DAVID MULLEN

president, partner | The Variable Winston-Salem

The Variable has won repeated recognition for its growth and innovative marketing by AdAge magazine. Mullen, 41, is a University of South Carolina graduate who became president in 2017. The Variable’s clients include Electrolux, Nestle, Lowes Foods and Duke Health. In 2020, Fast Company included the business on its Top 100 Best Workplaces for Innovators.

Employer’s distinction: The Variable is one of the first companies in the U.S. to organically combine business innovation consulting and award-winning advertising. It allows us to uniquely help clients design and commercialize insight-driven innovation, and then launch and grow it in the market with strategy, creative, social and digital media.

Best advice: “If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up the people to gather wood, divide the work and give orders. Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea.” (Antoine de Saint-Exupéry in The Little Prince)

Proud family accomplishment: My wife, Julie, and I are raising four amazingly talented, independent, smart, empathetic daughters.

Favorite recent book: Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

Favorite music: Hip-hop of the ’90s and 2000s

CHRIS MORALES

president | FreemanWhite Charlotte

The 22-year veteran of the health careoriented architectural firm has worked on projects including Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas and Mission Health in Asheville. A graduate of UNC Charlotte, he became managing principal in 2014, the same year Jacksonville, Fla.based Haskell bought the business.

KEVIN MOSTELLER

senior vice president | HDR Charlotte

Mosteller oversees operations for the Omaha, Neb.-based engineering, design and construction services company in North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. His professional focus is designing and constructing water and wastewater treatment plants, advising municipal officials nationally on optimizing their operations.

JEFFREY PAINE

co-founder | Duda|Paine

Durham

Paine, 68, and Turan Duda founded their Durham-based architecture practice in 1997 and are responsible for more than 6 million square feet of projects for clients such as Duke and N.C. Central universities and Kane Realty. Paine is a Syracuse University graduate.

N.C.’s challenge: Having the needed infrastructure to support growth. North Carolina has done the right thing by building the road systems needed for growth. But without comprehensive regional planning and a working relationship between fast-growth counties like Wake, Durham and Orange around light rail and mass transit, I worry that the Triangle — listed as the No. 1 development market by the Urban Land Institute — may fall victim to its own success.

Best advice: When we first started our practice, we met with a developer who asked us, what kind of architectural firm do you want to be? We struggled with how to answer. He explained we should create a firm that, first, played to our passion for design and that, second, built associations with firms with strengths that complemented ours. It helped to form our fundamental approach to architectural practice.

Favorite passion: I’m a big movie fan and always have one or two books I’m reading on my nightstand. I love a good murder novel and am a huge fan of Louise Penny. I also love historical fiction including Erik Larson. Books on management and practice also interest me, and I particularly like Jim Collins and Malcolm Gladwell.

Favorite recent book: The Water Dancer by Ta-Nehisi Coates

JOE PARADISE

Carolinas managing partner | KPMG LLP

Charlotte

Paradise, 47, is a graduate of Florida State University who holds several leadership positions at the international professional services firm including alumni network partner-in-charge, coastal business unit and hub leader. He also serves as a lead partner and account executive for a variety of clients spanning the Southeast.

First job: LIfeguard

North Carolina’s challenge: Lack of balance. People love North Carolina because it is a great place to raise a family, build a career and enjoy your life. We can’t get so focused on singular issues that we forget being a great place is a complicated web of solutions.

Best advice: Don’t be afraid to do things that make you uncomfortable.

Proud family accomplishment: I have an awesome family with lots of energy. Each member has their own unique passions and personality.

Favorite passion: The outdoors

Decision you would change: I would definitely have taken a gap year during college.

Favorite recent book: Orvis fishing catalog

CRAWFORD POUNDS

managing partner, southeast market | PricewaterhouseCooper

Charlotte

The University of Alabama graduate and 33-year PwC veteran is on the board of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation and YMCA of Greater Charlotte.

First job: While in high school, I worked for a bank showing people how to use an ATM.

Employer’s distinction: PwC’s purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems. We live out that purpose by bringing our passion for excellence, digital skills and sense of care to our clients and communities.

Best advice: Lead with compassion and invest in the lives of family, friends, colleagues and those in need.

MATT RYAN president, CEO | S&ME

Raleigh

The former HDR executive joined the employee-owned engineering and construction services company in 2018. It operates in 13 states and is among the Triangle area’s largest privately held businesses. He has bachelor’s and master’s degrees from George Mason University.

STEPHANIE SADOWSKI

managing director | Accenture Technology Consulting

Charlotte

Sadowski works as the technology consulting lead for a North American industry team and Charlotte office managing director. She is an MIT engineering graduate.

Employer’s distinction: Our company reflects the human ingenuity of our talented people and their commitment to using technology to deliver value for all stakeholders. We embrace change and continually transform our business to create value.

North Carolina’s challenge: Economic mobility has been a challenge for a long time, and it will only grow as the way we work is poised to change drastically. It will be critical to build skills pathways for people to access technology careers.

Best advice: “Be curious, don’t be judgmental.” (from the Ted Lasso show on Apple TV)

Proud family accomplishment: My husband and our three daughters are all math and science nerds who are passionate about giving back to our community.

Favorite passion: Traveling and exploring with an athletic twist. Our family loves to combine travel with running races, skiing or other athletic endeavors.

Person you admire: My mom, Martha DeWeese, 75. She entered the scientific field of infectious diseases at a time when it was very male-dominated. After a short break to have a family, she returned to her passion as a teacher. She still teaches a fulltime course load of advanced placement biology and microbiology classes and is recognized as one of Florida’s best science teachers.

Favorite recent book: The Great Influenza by John M. Barry about the 1917-19 pandemic

Favorite music: Country

Something surprising: Before we moved to Charlotte, my husband and I lived in California’s Mojave Desert while he was stationed at Fort Irwin.

SEPI SAIDI

CEO | Sepi

Raleigh

Born in Iran, Saidi founded Sepi in 2001 with two employees and two contracts. The consulting and design firm now employs more than 250. Named Triangle Business Journal’s Person of the Year in 2018, the N.C. State University graduate serves on boards including the State Banking Commission and RaleighDurham Airport Authority.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

JOE SKINNER

vice president | Dewberry Engineering

Raleigh

Skinner joined the 2,000-employee, Fairfax, Va.-based engineering services firm in 2015. He heads urban and land development efforts in the Carolinas. The graduate of West Virginia University previously served as the CEO of Laurel, Md.-based Greenhorne & O’Mara, which was bought by Stantec in 2012.

WILLY STEWART

CEO, chairman | Stewart Raleigh

Since the Colombia native started his company in 1994, the engineering services firm has grown to six offices and more than 200 employees. Stewart, 61, came to North Carolina on a golf scholarship at Western Carolina University and later graduated from N.C. State University.

First jobs: Construction laborer during the day and Kmart stock person in the evening Employer’s distinction: We are weaving our values into our culture and our operations. Our values spell the word THREAD and stand for Trust, Humility, Respect about how we embrace our people and Excellence, Accountability, Discipline — our business intelligence. These values are spilling over into people’s lives and their communities.

Favorite passion: Heading to Europe with my wife, Sherri, to ride bikes, explore the non-tourist areas and enjoy wine

MATT SNOW

CEO | DHG

Charlotte

Snow, 57, joined the largest accounting firm based in the South in 2007 after 21 years at KPMG. He became CEO in 2014. He serves on the board of visitors at the business school of his alma mater, Wake Forest University.

First job: Working in a fast-food restaurant. I learned how to deliver a great customer experience, how to be an effective teammate and the benefits of hard work. I made mistakes, but this job taught me how to turn my failures into learning opportunities. The fundamental career skills I learned are key to success in so much of what we do at DHG.

Person you admire: My father is my biggest source of inspiration. He passed away this past year. I admire everything he stood for, including his work ethic, how he valued our family and how he always put others first. He used to say, “You can judge a person’s character by how they talk to someone who can’t talk back to them.” My father taught me to treat others with respect and dignity. If we all did a little bit more of this every day, we could make a great impact on the world.

Favorite recent book: I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness by Austin Channing Brown. Reading this book helped me step into the shoes of a Black person and recognize the deeply rooted societal struggle, unfairness and inequality in America. This year, DHG has focused on going from “knowing” to “understanding.” I encourage others to read Brown’s book to gain a better perspective of what it is like to be Black in America.

Favorite recent book: Falling Upward by Richard Rohr

RANDALL TAYLOR

senior vice president | Aecom

Raleigh

The N.C. State University graduate oversees operations in the U.S. and Latin America for the Los Angelesbased engineering and construction management company. He received the 2016 Aecom CEO Award for Outstanding Leadership and Performance. Aecom has more than 450 Triangle employees.

WHITLEY WOOD

principal, co-managing director of Gensler Charlotte | Gensler

Charlotte

Wood leads teams across multiple offices as the co-managing director of Gensler Charlotte. She is also a firmwide client relationships leader with a focus on global financial services firms. A graduate of UNC Greensboro, Wood serves on the board of advisers at the school’s Department of Interior Architecture.

PHOTO OF WILLY STEWART BY CHRISTER BERG

REAL ESTATE

Massive wealth has been created in North Carolina’s real estate industry over the last decade because of soaring property values, particularly in the Charlotte, Triangle and coastal areas. The state has become a magnet for international investment because of its growth prospects. This section includes many of the state’s most successful contractors, developers and residential brokerage company owners.

Downtown Raleigh

PHOTO OF RALEIGH BY RICH FONT

ANDY ANDREWS

chairman, CEO | Dominion Realty Partners

Raleigh

The development firm led by former professional tennis pro Andrews, 62, has offices in Charlotte, Raleigh and Richmond, Va. The N.C. State University graduate raises money to help interest low-income children in tennis.

North Carolina’s challenge: Managing the significant growth our state has experienced and will experience is going to determine our quality of life in North Carolina.

Person you admire: My father. After serving in World War II, where he received the Silver Star for piloting B-17 bombers, later becoming a general in the Air Force, got his master’s in tax law from Northwestern University [and] later formed many companies like BTI, Sugar Mountain Ski Resort, FMI and N.C. Natural Gas and many more. He always supported me in chasing my dreams while challenging me to be the best I could at whatever I chose to do.

Decision you would change: [I would have] remained on the pro tour a few additional years to have possibly won a Grand Slam title instead of retiring. Getting to the finals of the Australian Open was nice, but a win is everlasting.

Something surprising: I was adopted at birth.

AUDIE BAREFOOT

CEO | Fonville Morisey Barefoot

Raleigh

The Raleigh area native started his own company in 1983 and merged with Fonville Morisey in 1989. It has long been a major force in the Triangle’s residential real estate market and also operates a Wilmington office. His son, Jonathan, is company president.

ROB BARNHILL

president | Barnhill Contracting

Rocky Mount

Barnhill has served as president since 2010 of the company founded by his grandfather. Among the state’s largest contractors with annual revenue topping $500 million, it has built or renovated high-profile projects such as Charlotte’s Optimist Hall and WRAL’s headquarters in Raleigh.

JON BELL

CEO | Bell Partners

Greensboro

The son of company founder Steve Bell has shepherded more than $10 billion in real estate deals since joining the company in 2001. He became CEO in 2016. The UNC Chapel Hill MBA graduate raised $950 million in 2020 to acquire more apartment developments.

TOMMY CAMP

president, CEO | Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Carolinas

Realty Charlotte

Camp, 66, has built his real estate company into one of the state’s largest with more than 900 agents. The University of South Carolina graduate took over Prudential Carolinas Realty in 2005. Warren Buffet’s company bought the business in 2013.

First job: Selling peanuts at University of South Carolina home football games

Best advice: There is no substitute for hard work. (my father)

Proud family accomplishment: The strength of character of our children and their spouses, and their commitment to their family, their faith and good citizenship

Favorite passion: Spending time with my wife, Patricia, and our children and grandchildren

Person you admire: My parents, John and Emily Camp, and my wife’s parents, Melvin and Joyce Poole. They were exemplary in character, love for their families, church and country.

Favorite recent book: The Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life by Alice Schroeder

Favorite music: Carolinas beach music

Something surprising: I cry when I hear the national anthem.

ROY CARROLL II

founder, president, CEO | The Carroll Cos.

Greensboro

Carroll founded his company with his father as a custom homebuilder in 1984 and has grown it to more than $2.5 billion in real estate under management, including apartment and office buildings, hotels and storage units.

REAL ESTATE

TIM CLANCY

president | Clancy & Theys

Construction

Raleigh

Clancy, 72, succeeded his father in 1986 in leading the business that was formed in 1949. The company ranked 170th nationally in Engineering News Record ’s rankings of largest U.S. contractors in 2019. It also has offices in Charlotte, Wilmington, Orlando and Newport News, Va.

First job: Estimator

Employer’s distinction: One of the state’s oldest and largest vertical construction and family-owned companies

North Carolina’s challenge: Prosperity is concentrated in a few places and not broadly shared among ethnically diverse groups.

Favorite passion: Racing my Porsche

Person you admire: My father, E.I. Clancy, who cared deeply about us

Favorite recent book: Spearhead by Adam Makos

Favorite music: The Who

DAVID CUTHBERTSON

co-owner | True Homes

Monroe

He leads one of the 40 largest U.S. homebuilders, according to Builder magazine. It has operations in the Charlotte, Triangle, Triad and coastal markets. It closed on more than 2,000 properties last year. He is chairman of the American Bank & Trust community bank.

PAT DEAN

senior vice president, national operations | Balfour Beatty

Charlotte

The Kansas State University graduate joined the London-based contractor as Carolinas business unit leader in 2006, then became regional president in 2012. He’s led some of the state’s largest construction projects, including 300 South Tryon and 1 Bank of America Center in Charlotte.

ANTHONY DILWEG

founder, CEO | The Dilweg Cos.

Durham

The former NFL quarterback has acquired commercial real estate valued at more than $1.3 billion since founding his company in 1999. The Duke University graduate oversees projects in four Southern states with a history of improving, then selling his developments.

WYATT DIXON

founding partner | Proffitt Dixon

Charlotte

Dixon has led more than $1 billion in real estate transactions since co-founding the company with Stuart Proffitt in 2009. The Appalachian State University and UNC Chapel Hill graduate has developed luxury apartment communities across the Southeast.

SCOTT DUCKWORTH

regional president | Brasfield & Gorrie

Raleigh

An Auburn University graduate, Duckworth, 54, has spent nearly three decades with the Birmingham, Ala.-based general contractor. He’s been regional president since January 2020. A recent project is WakeMed Cary Hospital’s expansion.

First job: Pumping gas, bagging groceries, shocking shelves and helping the butcher at a small store

Best advice: Look for the win-win solution in all situations. (founder Miller Gorrie)

Person you admire: Miller Gorrie for his selfless leadership and how he values people

Something surprising: I witnessed singer Waylon Jennings signing his will.

BRETT GRAY

managing principal | Cushman & Wakefield

Charlotte

In his position since 2017, Gray, 39, has helped nearly triple the Charlotte office’s revenue. The UNC Chapel Hill graduate joined the national firm in 2012 and oversees more than 100 employees. He helped broker the sale of the Bank of America Legacy Union tower.

First job: Working at Arthur’s, a grill at the SouthPark Belk store. I still eat lunch there.

Person you admire: Hugh McColl Jr.

Something surprising: I have officiated at two weddings.

CLAY GRUBB

CEO | Grubb Properties

Charlotte

Grubb, 53, has a bachelor’s degree from Tulane University and is a UNC School of Law graduate. His company has developed more than 5,000 apartments and 2 million square feet of office space in several states.

First job: Collecting mortgage payments and completing amortization schedules — by hand — at age 12

North Carolina’s challenge: Providing education for all children, rural and urban Favorite passions: Kiteboarding, mountain biking, water skiing and snow skiing

Person you admire: Albert Ratner, retired Forest City Real Estate CEO, whose success sprouted from a commitment to community

Favorite recent book: Tightrope by Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn

R. GORDON GRUBB

president | Grubb Ventures

Raleigh

Grubb, 61, founded the company in 2002 to redevelop underutilized property. He has a Wake Forest University law degree and a UNC Chapel Hill MBA. He and his brother, Charlotte developer Clay Grubb, grew up in Lexington. They do not typically co-invest in properties.

First jobs: Mowing yards and painting houses

Proud family accomplishment: I am so very proud of my entire family including my wife, Sallie, and our three children, Stuart, Robert and Darden.

Person you admire: My late father, Robert Grubb. He helped so many people become homeowners who otherwise couldn’t have by developing nice affordable housing and providing financing, and he did it in a very unassuming and quiet way.

Favorite recent book: I Thought It Was Just Me (but It Isn’t) by Brené Brown

REAL ESTATE

NEAL HANKS

principal owner, president | Beverly-Hanks Realtors

Asheville

An Appalachian State University graduate and Asheville native, Hanks, 57, has spent 20 years running western North Carolina’s most active residential realty firm with annual volume topping $1 billion.

First job: Working at an Arby’s Best advice: You’re either green and growing or ripe and rotting. (my father)

Proud family accomplishments: My wife, Amy. She founded Beverly-Hanks Mortgage Services in 2000 and has shepherded the company into a thriving mortgage banking operation, all while being an actively engaged mom to four children and a loving wife and caring friend to many.

Favorite passions: Hunting, fishing, camping, snow skiing and watersports

JOHNO HARRIS

president | Lincoln Harris

Charlotte

The son of Charlotte civic leaders Johnny and Deborah Harris has led the developer since 2015. He previously worked for Fortress Investment Group in Charlotte. Lincoln Harris’ projects include downtown’s Bank of America Tower and the Rea Farms mixed-use project in south Charlotte.

DAVID JONES

CEO | Coldwell Banker Howard Perry Walston

Cary

The Wake Forest University graduate, 62, became CEO after joining the business in 1987 as controller. The firm was created when Howard Perry and Don Walston merged their firms in 1973. Jones previously worked in public accounting.

First jobs: Cleaning shrimp, cutting grass and working as a deckhand on a ferry

Proud family accomplishment: I have three adult daughters. All completed college with honors and are pursuing meaningful careers.

Favorite passion: Running trails at Umstead Park

Person you admire: Don Walston — he has the gift of wondering

Something surprising: I competed in the 2017 Ironman 70.3 World Championship, two Ironman races and 20 Ironman 70.3 races.

SAM JUDD

founder, managing partner | Asana Partners

Charlotte

The UNC Chapel Hill graduate joined former Edens colleagues Terry Brown and Jason Tompkins to co-found the company in 2015 to redevelop mixed-use projects in fast-growing cities. He previously worked for Sears Holdings. Asana raised $800 million in 2019.

JOHN KANE

CEO | Kane Realty

Raleigh

Kane started with buying and redeveloping properties in eastern North Carolina, ultimately becoming one of Raleigh’s top developers. The Wake Forest University graduate’s company’s many projects include the $1 billion North Hills Innovation District and Downtown South projects in Raleigh, which mingle office, housing and entertainment.

REED JACKSON

managing partner | Ivester Jackson

Cornelius

A Michigan State University graduate, Jackson has led the boutique real-estate brokerage since 2003. It is affiliated with Christie’s International Real Estate and specializes in higher-priced properties across the Charlotte region. Its revenue has grown 400% since 2014.

GREG KEITH JR.

president, CEO | The Keith Corp.

Charlotte

Keith founded the company with his father, Graeme, in 1989 and has developed, leased or managed more than 19 million square feet of commercial space nationally. Other subsidiaries include general contracting and management of corrections facilities. He has bachelor’s and law degrees from Wake Forest University.

PHOTO OF JOHN KANE BY CHRISTER BERG

FRED KLEIN

senior managing partner | Childress Klein

Charlotte

Much of Charlotte’s skyline was developed by the firm led by Klein, 75, who has a bachelor’s from Princeton University and a Wharton MBA. Major current projects include the new Duke Energy tower and a massive industrial project planned near Concord Mills in Cabarrus County.

First job: Chemical division of Exxon

Employer’s distinction: We make a point to hire the best, promote from within and give our employees the freedom and tools to do the job that they were hired to do. By doing so, we have been fortunate to play a role in creating exceptional projects that have helped shape Charlotte and respond to the exponential growth happening in the area.

TED KLINCK

president, director, CEO | Highwood Properties

Raleigh

The University of Georgia MBA graduate joined the real estate investment trust in 2012 and succeeded leader Ed Fritsch in 2018. The REIT, which has returned investors 19% over the past five years, sold properties in Greensboro and Memphis to focus on faster-growth areas.

PETE LASH

managing director | Beacon

Partners

Charlotte

A U.S. Military Academy graduate with a University of Virginia MBA, Lash, 61, joined with Charlotte Caterpillar franchise owner Ed Weisiger Jr. to start Beacon in 1989. Its projects include the mixed-use RailYard in Charlotte’s South End.

First job: Second lieutenant, U.S. Army

Employer’s distinction: The most distinctive aspect of our company is that we’ve been able to attract a unique and special group of people who are … high character, humble and thoughtful humans and ... extremely good at what they do every day. We care about each other and put our families above our work.

North Carolina’s challenge: It is heartbreaking to see so many of our neighbors struggle with poor education options, lack of health care and many other obstacles that lower their chances of personal or family success. It’s not a level playing field, and we can’t rest until it is.

People you admire: Ron Sherrill, ex-CEO of Steelfab. The most generous man I have ever met. ... [And] Jim Morgan, ex-CEO of Krispy Kreme. … He’s a wonderful example of leading by loving.

TODD MANSFIELD

chairman, CEO | Crescent Communities

Charlotte

Named CEO of what was once Duke Energy’s real estate division in 2011, he has overseen more than $10 billion of projects over his career. The Harvard University graduate previously worked for Crosland and The Walt Disney Co. Japan’s Sumitomo Forestry became majority owner in 2018.

STEPHEN MCCLURE

CEO | The Spectrum Cos.

Charlotte

McClure, 40, heads a company that has developed more than 30 commercial projects. It has more than 4.4 million square feet of property under management or lease and 1,600 apartments in its $2 billion portfolio. The Wake Forest University graduate earned an MBA at Duke University.

Proud family accomplishment: My son’s nickname is “Happy Jack” because of his smile and the light he brings into the lives of people he interacts with. Grace is an empathetic, caring 9-year-old who goes out of her way to make sure everyone is included.

Something surprising: We moved to England for my dad’s job when I was almost 8 and lived there for four years.

JAMES MERRIFIELD

managing partner | MPV Properties

Charlotte

Last year MPV celebrated the 10th anniversary of the merger of companies run by Merrifield, Bailey Patrick and Steve Vermillion. The Harvard Business School graduate has directed the development of 4,000 acres and 3.5 million square feet of commercial space.

VALERIE MITCHENER

owner, broker | HM Properties

Charlotte

The Philadelphia-area native founded her company in 2006 with six brokers. It now ranks among the top Queen City residential real estate leaders with 115 agents. The UNC Chapel Hill graduate previously built and sold TextWorks, a financial industry training technology company.

CHASE MONROE

Carolinas market director, Charlotte brokerage lead | JLL

Charlotte

Monroe, 55, is a University of Virginia graduate who joined JLL in 2011 after cofounding a regional consulting firm and stints with Lincoln Harris and Spectrum Properties.

First job: Branch manager at First Union National Bank (now Wells Fargo)

North Carolina’s challenge: The growing economic divide. As the state of North Carolina continues to grow and recruit new companies to our beautiful area, we need to make sure that we solve some of our existing issues and not compound them through growth.

Best advice: Treat everyone you meet as an equal and be grateful for them. (my father)

Decision you regret: Not investing every nickel of my life savings in commercial real estate in Charlotte and Raleigh over the years

Favorite music: Anything from the ’80s and ’90s

EB MOORE

CEO | Wilkinson ERA Real Estate

Charlotte

A residential real estate veteran since the 1970s, Moore moved to Wilkinson in 2016 and has helped build one of the region’s biggest agencies with more than 800 agents. He previously was CEO of Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston in Raleigh.

REAL ESTATE

COMPIE NEWMAN

managing director | CBRE

Charlotte

The Naval Academy graduate and aviator manages the Charlotte office of the international real estate services company, which he joined in 2010. He previously worked for NorthMarq Capital and RBC Capital Advisors. Over his career, he’s placed more than $3.5 billion in real estate capital.

MICHAEL OVERTON

owner, president | The Overton Group

Greenville

Overton, 46, leads a major eastern North Carolina commercial real estate company. The Greenville native and East Carolina University graduate helped lead his family’s water sports catalog company before its sale in 2003. He chairs the Greenville-ENC Alliance economic development group.

North Carolina’s challenge: Not just our state but our country: The polarization of our culture is going to destroy us. There isn’t an us vs. them. There is simply an us, and yet we don’t act that way. Until people get their social media habits under control and members of some of the news media mature, this isn’t likely to change.

Best advice: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind and love your neighbor as yourself.” (Jesus)

Favorite recent book: The Institute by Stephen King

Something surprising: I love to bake with my kids and make some pretty good desserts.

CHRIS PARR

owner, CEO | Parr Investments

Greensboro

After building a successful apartment flooring business, Parr launched his company in 2001 to build apartment communities across the Triad. The Appalachian State University graduate and Greensboro native now has nearly 2,500 units under his belt.

PETER PAPPAS

CEO, owner | Terwilliger Pappas, Pappas Properties

Charlotte

The N.C. State University graduate started his company in 1999, and it’s become one of the Queen City’s most prominent mixed-use developers. He’s been involved in such projects as Huntersville’s Birkdale Village, Charlotte Midtown’s Metropolitan and many apartment communities.

CHAD PAUL

CEO | Bald Head Island Ltd.

Bald Head Island

Since 2010 the Harvard Business School graduate has managed the private 12,000acre island, a second-home destination in Brunswick County accessible by ferry. The island is owned by heirs of Texas oilman George Mitchell. He’s also a partner in Harbor Island Equity Partners and a director at First Carolina Bank.

GREG PEELE

general manager, executive vice president | Skanska USA Building

Durham

Peele manages the Swedish contracting company’s operations in North Carolina and Virginia. Major projects have included the James B. Hunt Jr. Library and FittsWoolard Hall engineering building at Peele’s alma mater, N.C. State University, and a surgical tower at UNC Hospitals.

ROGER PERRY

founder, president | East West Partners

Chapel Hill

Perry has led East West since 1983, building large residential communities such as Meadowmont in Chapel Hill and Adams Farm in Greensboro. The UNC Chapel Hill graduate is a longtime volunteer leader at his alma mater, where he formerly was chairman of the trustees board.

REAL ESTATE

J. ERIC PIKE

chairman, CEO | Pike Corp.

Mount Airy

Pike oversees 10,000 employees and 100 offices at one of the largest U.S. electrical system construction and maintenance companies. The Emory University graduate became CEO in 2002 after starting as a lineman in 1990. It went public in 2005, then Pike led a buyout in 2014. His grandfather, Floyd Pike, started the company in 1945.

GREGORY POOLE III

chairman, president, CEO | Gregory Poole Equipment

Raleigh

Poole represents the third generation to run the company, which was founded in 1951 as the state’s second Caterpillar dealer. The 1,300-employee company supplies construction equipment across eastern North Carolina. He bought the company from his father and became CEO in 1999. Its annual revenue tops $600 million.

GARY RABON

president, CEO | Coldwell Banker Advantage

Raleigh

Starting his own office in 1995 with nine agents, Rabon now manages more than 1,700 real estate agents and 55 offices in the Triangle, Triad and South Carolina. The East Carolina University graduate is a past president of the Raleigh Regional Association of Realtors.

DAVID RAVIN

president, CEO | Northwood Ravin

Charlotte

The former Crosland executive started his company in 2011 and became a leading apartment developer. After forming a joint venture with New York-based Northwood Investors, the business has expanded into office projects in Durham and Charlotte. He has architecture degrees from UNC Charlotte and the University of Michigan.

PAT RILEY

president, CEO | Allen Tate

Charlotte

The Indiana University of Pennsylvania graduate, 69, has led the brokerage since 1992, overseeing annual sales that have topped $5 billion. In 2018, the locally owned firm merged with Pittsburghbased Howard Hanna to create the largest privately owned U.S. residential brokerage. First job: Framing carpenter

North Carolina’s challenge: Public education reform, which is why I am so passionate about BEST NC (Business for Educational Success and Transformation).

Best advice: What would the world be like if someone did not have to get credit?

Favorite recent book: The Power of Moments by Chip and Dan Heath

STUART PROFFITT

founding partner | Proffitt Dixon

Charlotte

Proffitt, who had worked for Pappas Properties, joined Wyatt Dixon to found the company in 2008. The N.C. State University graduate, who has an MBA from the University of Southern California, has developed more than $1 billion of multifamily communities in the Carolinas and Tennessee.

RUSTY PULLIAM

president, CEO | Pulliam Properties

Asheville

Pulliam joined his father Winston’s realty company in 1986 and stepped into its top job in 1993. Over the next three decades, the Newberry College graduate has built what he calls western North Carolina’s largest commercial real estate firm.

PAT RODGERS

president, CEO | Rodgers Builders

Charlotte

Rodgers, 73, has been CEO since 1988 of the business started by her late husband, B.D. Rodgers Jr., in 1963. Revenue totaled $510 million in 2019. She has chaired the Charlotte Chamber and Mint Museum boards.

First job: Waitress at a hot dog stand

North Carolina’s challenge: Workforce development to ensure we continue to attract and grow diversity in our workforce and diverse future economic growth across the entire state, both in urban and rural communities

Best advice: B.D. Rodgers, founder of Rodgers Builders, always said, “Never second guess yourself. Things work out for the best because you make the best out of them.”

ARTHUR SAMET

chairman, CEO | Samet Corp. Greensboro

Samet succeeded his father in 2000 as leader of the construction company formed in 1961. The University of Georgia and UNC MBA graduate expanded into development with revenue topping $400 million in 2019. It has six offices, including one added last year in Wilmington.

BUDDY SEYMOUR

partner | Windsor Commercial Greensboro

Seymour co-founded the company in 2003 after a multidecade career in sales and real estate. It develops multifamily, medical and industrial projects in the Carolinas, Georgia and Tennessee. He has a bachelor’s degree from N.C. State University and a UNC Greensboro MBA.

TIM SMITH

owner | Preston Development

Cary Smith, 72, and partner Bubba Rawl have been key developers of many residential communities including MacGregor West and Preston in Cary, with backing from SAS Institute’s Jim Goodnight. Their nearly 8,000-acre Chatham Park project is expected to be among the Triangle’s largest planned communities. The Salisbury native’s father, Wilson, was a cofounder of Food Town, now Food Lion.

First job: Food Town produce department North Carolina’s challenge: Too much control by state government

Best advice: Be friends to everyone.

Proud family accomplishments: Two great children and two awesome granddaughters

Favorite passion: Travel

Person you admire: Bubba Rawl — my business partner of 35 years

Favorite recent book: Boxed In by J.P. Davis

Favorite music: ’70s

PAUL SULLIVAN

vice president | Gilbane Building

Raleigh

Sullivan was tapped to lead the North Carolina operation in 2016 after working for the Providence, R.I.-based contractor and a predecessor company since 2000. The University of Florida graduate works with a client list that includes Duke University, Truist and Google.

THOMAS TAFT SR.

chairman, CEO | Taft Family Ventures

Greenville

The former N.C. state senator and veteran lawyer has developed or acquired more than 7,000 apartments and 2 million square feet of commercial space since 1988. He has a bachelor’s degree from Duke University and a UNC Chapel Hill law degree. His sons Thomas and Jonathan are principals.

EDDIE VANNOY

co-owner, CEO | Vannoy Construction

Jefferson

The East Carolina University graduate, 72, has worked in the family business since 1971 and been CEO since 1985. Annual revenue has topped $580 million in recent years with six offices in the Carolinas.

First job: My first job was curb hopping at a local restaurant in Jefferson when I was 12 years old. This job taught me about hard work and responsibility from a young age.

North Carolina’s challenge: The biggest challenge facing our state which most concerns me is the growth, or [more] specifically our ability to keep up with the infrastructure to handle the growth.

Best advice: My best advice came from my dad. He always taught my brothers and me to treat everyone like you would like to be treated. In terms of the business, he always said you could construct many good projects and a lot of people would see them, but if you built just one bad project, everybody would hear about it.

Proud family accomplishments: I am married, and through the years have been blessed with two sons, a daughter, seven grandchildren, and two stepsons, one of whom passed away in 1996. In his memory, our company set up a scholarship fund that has helped more than 570 high school seniors pursue their dreams by attending college.

ROBIN TEAM

managing partner | Front Street Capital Lexington

Team, 65, has been a key N.C. developer since the mid-1980s. He and his son Coleman merged Carolina Investment Properties and Front Street Capital in 2014. The Wake Forest University graduate oversees a real estate portfolio valued at more than $350 million. His son Alston also works for the business.

First job: Training program at BB&T

Employer’s distinction: Front Street Capital is a high-energy, full-service development firm that is experiencing tremendous growth. … We pride ourselves in the cities that we call home and enjoy helping change the face of each community.

Favorite passions: My favorite pastimes are playing golf and collecting muscle cars and memorabilia. ... In 2020, I auctioned off my collection of muscle cars and memorabilia that took 30 years to accumulate. The decision was not an easy one, but now I have room to start collecting again.

JIM WALLACE

founder, CEO | Intracoastal Realty

Wilmington

Wallace went to Florida State University on a basketball scholarship, then embarked on his career in real estate. He founded his brokerage company in Wrightsville Beach with one other employee in 1976. It now has more than 350 agents and 13 offices.

TAMMY WHITWORTH

chairwoman, CEO | Window World Wilkesboro

The Wilkes County native and Meredith College graduate acquired the corporate office of the exterior remodeling company from her late husband Todd’s parents in 2007. They previously owned several franchise stores. Becoming CEO in 2010, she oversees more than 200 locations nationwide.

Dominion Realty Partners provides green-certified development and redevelopment of urban and suburban locations with a mix of property types. Throughout the development process we are focused on the end result: a high-quality, high-value asset with eco-friendly design principles.

Congratulations to our Power List 2021 recipient, Andy Andrews!

RETAIL

North Carolina has a rich history of enterprising retailers as the starting spot for Belk, Family Dollar, Food Lion, Lowe’s and other enduring chains. This section includes a variety of executives steering their companies amid tough competition from Amazon.com and Walmart.

The Waterfront Shops, Duck

RODNEY ANTOLOCK

president | Harris Teeter

Matthews

Antolock began his grocery career with Albertsons in 1978 and joined Harris Teeter in 2000. After stints in merchandising, human resources and as vice president of operations, he became president in 2015, two years after Kroger paid $2.4 billion for the 260-store chain.

JOSE ARMARIO

CEO | Bojangles Charlotte

A former McDonald’s senior executive, Armario, 61, was named CEO in January 2019, shortly after the quick-service chicken chain was taken private by two New York private-equity companies. The University of Miami graduate also worked for LensCrafters and Burger King.

Employer’s distinction: The values our team lives by — hard work, teamwork, harmony and respect — resonate with mine.

North Carolina’s challenge: Dealing with the ongoing economic fallout from the pandemic, ensuring equity in recovery efforts and strengthening our communities

Best advice: My mother taught me the value of working hard and protecting your integrity.

BILL BODDIE

CEO | Boddie-Noell Enterprises

Rocky Mount

Boddie leads the business that family members started with 15-cent burgers in Fayetteville in 1962. It operates more than 340 Hardee’s restaurants in four states — the brand’s largest franchisee — and a ’50s-themed diner, wedding and event venue. It also develops real estate.

JOHN CATO

chairman, president, CEO | The Cato Corp.

Charlotte

Cato started with his family’s apparel chain in 1989 and has been CEO since 1999. The UNC Charlotte graduate closed 1,300 stores at the pandemic’s start and reopened them by June 2020. His grandfather, father and uncle started the business in 1946.

JEFF DYKE

president | Sonic Automotive

Charlotte

Dyke has steered the group of more than 100 dealerships through pandemic sales pressures, technology revolutions and other challenges since 2018. He was paid more than $4.7 million last year at the company, which has about 10,000 employees and a market cap of $2 billion.

MARVIN ELLISON

president, CEO | Lowe’s Mooresville

The former JCPenney CEO joined Lowe’s in 2018. An Emory University MBA graduate, he oversees a 2,200-store chain with annual revenue topping $90 billion. Its $153 million global technology center will open in Charlotte this year. He’s among the handful of Black CEOs of Fortune 500 companies.

DON FLOW

chairman, CEO | Flow Automotive Winston-Salem

Flow accelerated his family’s car business, where he started as a mechanic in 1978, to 39 dealerships and 1,500 employees. A Wake Forest University, Regent College and University of Virginia graduate, he is active in many local and state groups.

BRIAN GEORGE

president, CEO | Alex Lee Hickory

The grandson of the company’s cofounder, George took the reins in 2014. He oversees 74 Lowes grocery stores plus Merchants Distributors, wholesaler to more than 600 stores, and about 14,000 employees. The Notre Dame University graduate bought 20 Bi-Lo stores last year.

TOM GRECO

CEO | Advance Auto Parts

Raleigh

Greco joined Advance in 2016. The graduate of Laurentian University and Ivey Business School drove up the 5,000-store chain’s net sales 5% to $10 billion last year despite the pandemic. He wants to add 50 to 100 stores this year.

GARY GREEN

CEO | Compass Group

North America

Charlotte

The Great Britain native holds a foodservice degree from Johnson & Wales University. Compass provides contract food and hospitality services in many business, industrial, education and health care settings. Green joined in 1987 and became CEO in 1999. Sales reached $20 billion in 2019.

MEG HAM

president | Food Lion

Salisbury

The New York native and Cornell University graduate has led the 1,100-store grocer since 2014 after working for company owner Ahold Delhaize since 1988. Despite strong advances from discounters and high-end rivals, the chain has reported consistent gains in profit and revenue.

LISA HARPER

CEO | Belk

Charlotte

The UNC Chapel Hill graduate in 2016 became the first non-family member to lead the retailer. A Belk employee in Durham as a teenager, she later led Gymboree and Hot Topic. Sycamore Partners bought Belk for $3 billion in 2015, then restructured its debt in February.

JEFF HARRIS

president | Furnitureland South Jamestown

Harris runs the shopping-mall sized retailer that his parents started in 1969. It’s the nation’s largest furniture store with annual sales of $160 million and 500 employees. The High Point University graduate serves on bank and charity boards, including Brenner Children’s Hospital in Winston-Salem.

JIM LANNING

president, CEO | Ingles Markets

Black Mountain

Lanning started as a teen with the 200-store grocer, which focuses on the Carolinas and Georgia. The Western Carolina University graduate was named president in 2003 and CEO in 2016. He’s the first non-Ingles family member to lead its 19,000 employees.

MARK LARDIE

president, CEO | Rack Room Shoes

Charlotte

Lardie has led several footwear sellers, including Footstar in 2000 and Brown Shoe Co. in 2010. He joined 101-yearold Rack Room and its companion, Off Broadway Show Warehouse, in 2012. The Washington University graduate oversees 450 stores in 34 states.

TIM LOWE

president | Lowes Foods

Winston-Salem

The University of Houston graduate started with Walmart. He was named president in 2013 and has helped transition the chain to reach more affluent customers. A division of Hickory-based Alex Lee, it has more than 80 stores and 6,000 employees.

MIKE TATTERSFIELD

chairman, CEO | Krispy Kreme

Charlotte

A former executive of Yum Brands, Limited Brands and Caribou Coffee, Tattersfield came to the doughnut chain in 2017. It is owned by Luxembourg-based SAB Holdings. He is an Indiana University and Harvard Business School graduate. Launching Krispy Kreme’s delivery service just before the pandemic, he expects to open 450 stores by 2022.

ART POPE

owner, CEO | Variety Wholesalers

Raleigh

Pope, 64, runs a chain of more than 400 discount stores. He’s a graduate of UNC Chapel Hill and Duke University School of Law. A staunch conservative who served in the legislature and as state budget director, he is on the UNC Board of Governors.

Employer’s distinction: We’re one of the few North Carolina family-owned retail operators that’s growing. We’re proud to sustain employment in communities across 18 states and provide one-stop family shopping, offering alternatives to national dollar-store chains and big-box retailers.

North Carolina’s challenge: We need to promote a growing economy that gives people opportunities for upward mobility. We should prioritize affordable, quality education to meet each individual’s unique needs.

Favorite passion: Our family foundation, which supports human services, education and public policy research

Something surprising: I am a conservationist. As a legislator, I received a 100% positive rating from the Conservation Council in 2000.

JASON POTTER

CEO | The Fresh Market

Greensboro

Potter was named CEO in 2020 by private equity firm Apollo Global Management, which bought the 159-store grocer for $1.4 billion in 2016. He’s the fourth CEO in the past six years. The Harvard Business School graduate had been chief operating officer at Canada’s Sobeys grocery chain.

LANCE TRENARY

president, CEO | Golden Corral

Raleigh

The Mississippi State University graduate has helped build the biggest U.S. buffetrestaurant company since 2000. He became CEO in 2015. Annual sales neared $2 billion before collapsing during the pandemic, forcing changes including offering plated entrees, testing frozen margaritas and emphasizing off-premises sales.

STEPHEN YALOF

CEO | Tanger Factory Outlet

Centers

Greensboro

The George Washington University graduate, 58, succeeded Stephen Tanger as CEO of the 36-store chain in January. He previously was president of rival Simon Premium Outlets. Tanger operates in 20 states and Canada.

Employer’s distinction: We’re the only U.S. real estate investment trust that focuses completely on outlet retail in the United States. Since going public in 1993, we have a strong track record of delivering return and dividend growth for our investors. Although the pandemic made this more challenging over the past year, foot traffic has returned to pre-pandemic levels. We have a strong road map in place to help us maintain the increase.

Best advice: “Any time a customer raises a concern, multiply it by 50,000. The total is the number of people who have a similar concern but won’t bring it to your attention.” (Gap founder Mickey Drexler)

Proud family accomplishment: My two children

Favorite music: Grateful Dead

TRANSPORTATION

First in flight thanks to the Wright brothers’ successful takeoff in 1903, North Carolina has a rich history in aviation. Transportation remains influential today with one of the nation’s busiest airports, a big aviation-maintenance industry, fast-growing shipper Old Dominion Freight Line and successful entrepreneurial companies.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport, Charlotte

KEVIN BAKER

executive director | Piedmont Triad International Airport

Greensboro

The Lehigh University engineering graduate, 55, joined the airport in 2008 and succeeded longtime director Ted Johnson a year later. He’s helped lure star tenants such as Honda Aircraft and pushed runway expansions.

First job: Consulting engineer

Best advice: “Failure builds character.”

Person you admire: My dad

Proud family accomplishment: My kids, who are growing up to be successful, smart young adults

Favorite recent book: The Big Short by Michael Lewis

Something surprising: I’m the youngest of six. My brother was 21 and flying F-4s in Vietnam when I was a baby.

KEN BEYER

CEO | Transportation Insight Holding Co.

Hickory

After seven years as executive vice president at Irvine, Calif.-based Ingram Micro, he was named in October 2020 to oversee the N.C. logistics company’s two main branches, Transportation Insight and Nolan Transportation Group. He’s a graduate of Kansas State University and the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School. Transportation Insight has annual revenue of nearly $3 billion.

ROY COX

president | Best Logistics Group

Kernersville

With 350 trucks, 1,200 trailers and 500 employees, Cox, 50, leads one of the state’s largest shippers. He joined Best in 1994 and became president in 2016. He earned an industrial relations degree from UNC Chapel Hill.

First job: Working in tobacco

Best advice: “Remember, It’s all about the people.” (our chairman, David Reich)

Proud family accomplishment: Our two daughters, Elizabeth, 21, and Cooper, 11, who have strong faith and values and excel in academics and sports

Favorite recent book: Start With Why by Simon Sinek

Favorite music: Modern country and classic rock

MICHAEL FOX

chairman | N.C. Board of Transportation

Greensboro

Fox, 57, is a lawyer at Tuggle Duggins who also leads the 20-member board that helps set transportation policy. The Appalachian State University graduate has a UNC Chapel Hill law degree.

First job: Working at a gas station

North Carolina’s challenge: Making real investments in infrastructure, health care and educational systems and eliminating the digital divide

Best advice: “Don’t borrow trouble.” (my grandfather, referring to worrying)

Favorite passions: Hiking, camping, hunting, fishing

Something surprising: I’ve met every president from Gerald Ford to Barack Obama.

BRIAN CLARK

executive director | North Carolina Ports Authority

Wilmington

Clark was named chief operating officer of North Carolina’s ports in 2017, became deputy executive director two years later, and, earlier this year, succeeded Paul Cozza in the top job. He is a U.S. Merchant Marine Academy graduate who previously worked at ports in New Jersey and Alabama.

BILL COLLINS

president | HAECO Americas

Greensboro

HAECO Americas, with 2,100 employees, has helped make the Triad the state’s aviation maintenance center. Collins was named president in 2018 after working for American Airlines, The Bristow Group, GE and others. He has a bachelor’s degree from Rochester Institute of Technology.

GREG GANTT

president, CEO | Old Dominion Freight Line

Thomasville

The Appalachian State University graduate joined the trucking company in 1994 and became CEO in 2018. He is the first person outside the Congdon family to lead the company, which started in 1934. Old Dominion’s stock surged more than 400% over the past five years. It was the eighthlargest U.S. trucking company in 2020 with $4 billion in revenue, according to Transport Topics

TRANSPORTATION

GLENN GONZALES

CEO | Jet It Greensboro

The former Air Force pilot, 43, sold HondaJets for Honda Aircraft, then started his business in 2018 to lease the $5 million jets to fractional owners. He has an MBA from the University of South Carolina. First job: Sam Goody

Proud family accomplishment: My wife and daughters are my “why” for everything

Favorite passion: Investing in people. Michelangelo believed there is a beautiful statue inside every block of marble; you just have to chip away the excess. The same is true for people.

People you admire: My parents are wonderfully and perfectly imperfect.

MICHAEL LANDGUTH

CEO | Raleigh-Durham International Airport Cary

The Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University master’s graduate, 54, took the helm in 2011 after heading Chattanooga’s airport. Because of the pandemic, the airport authority postponed $97 million in construction.

Employer’s distinction: The passion my colleagues show for serving their community

Best advice: A U.S. Air Force fighter pilot told my college Reserve Officers’ Training Corps group that pilots always take two bags: a flight bag with training and education and a second brown paper grocery bag. In an emergency, you should find the answers in your flight bag. If you are not prepared, then open the second bag. It’s your luck bag. You never know if it’s your lucky day. Work hard so you don’t rely on luck.

Favorite recent book: The Millionaire Next Door. It caused my wife and me to ask, “Do we really need all this stuff?”

PHIL PECK

president | Epes Transport System

High Point

The Virginia Tech University graduate started as an operations manager in 1995 at the company, which Penske Logistics bought in 2018. He became chief operating officer in 2019 and succeeded retiring Richard Kuehn as president in March. The company operates more than 1,500 trucks.

PAUL THOMPSON

founder, chairman | Transportation

Insight

Hickory

Having earned an MBA from the University of Arkansas, Thompson in 2000 created a third-party logistics company to mate carriers and shippers, cut costs, and expedite billing and auditing. The business now has nearly $3 billion in annual revenue, operations centers in Charlotte; Bentonville, Ark.; and Atlanta, and more than 40 client support offices.

Employer’s distinction: We genuinely try to help our associates to be healthy, have balance in life, enjoy what they do, and like each other.

Proud family accomplishment: Their generosity and concern for others

Person you admire: I once met Sam Walton, founder of Walmart, in Monticello, Ark. He wanted to help Americans by letting their dollar go further and have a better life. He cared about his associates and probably made more American millionaires than anyone. He didn’t care that he was the richest man in the world; he wanted to leave the world a better place.

RALPH LOPEZ MASSAS

vice president, Charlotte hub | American Airlines

Charlotte

Lopez Massas oversees a hub that saw a 46% decline in traffic in 2020 because of the pandemic. He moved to Charlotte last July after having a similar post at American’s Fort Worth hub. He is a graduate of the Universidad de Puerto Rico.

CARL WARREN

president, CEO | N.C. Railroad

Raleigh

The former CSX ports director in Jacksonville, Fla., 53, succeeded Scott Saylor as president last year. He has a master’s degree from the University of Washington.

First job: Delivering newspapers

Employer’s distinction: We’re a private company that delivers considerable public benefits.

Best advice: Never try to grab the last nickels and pennies in a deal. Treat people the way you’d want to be treated.

Person you admire: My wife, who I’ve known since I was a starving graduate student

Proud family accomplishment: My daughter is a brilliant visual artist. My son is a highly competitive cyclist who excels at math and science.