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Evan B. Crouse Waverly Advisors, Inc.

from HBJ June 2023 Issue

from HBJ June 2023 Issue, page 23

Stephen Davis FPCTA Kyser Samp...

Biography: Evan Crouse serves as a Financial Planner, Client Consultant for Waverly Advisors. In this role, he provides customized, comprehensive financial planning that is focused on meeting clients’ needs and goals. Evan’s previous experience includes his time in the corporate finance department of a leading aerospace manufacturer and his time as an officer in the U.S. Air Force. He resides in Huntsville, Alabama with his wife and two daughters. Evan has a Masters in Business Administration and Finance from Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. He is actively involved in Rivertree Church's Praise and Worship team and is a volunteer couch for youth sports in the area.

Huntsville was recently ranked the 4th most prosperous city and one of the best places for career building opportunities. Why do you think Huntsville is so unique for younger career seeking individuals and entrepreneurs?

Huntsville has always been a city of innovation and a city that explores what is possible, both now and in the future. This stems from our roots with NASA, helping to send astronauts to the moon, and many other forward-looking efforts. Today, that same spirit of innovation and possibility is thriving in our city and has diversified into many other industries, including biotech, healthcare, and information technology.

I believe young professionals and entrepreneurs are attracted to a city that has this type of innovative and positive energy. They are drawn to Huntsville based on the natural beauty of the surrounding areas, the ever-growing attractions and events, and the outstanding business environment that is focused on innovation and answering the question, “what is next?”.

How has Huntsville shaped your career path?

The two words that come to mind are opportunity and generosity. As a growing and thriving business community, Huntsville has given me the opportunity to pursue my professional passion. The generosity and community involvement I have seen from local businesses and business leaders has inspired me to pursue my career with a focus on helping others and giving back to our great community.

What’s your favorite restaurant in town?

Surin of Thailand is my favorite restaurant in town. Thai and sushi are some of my favorite foods, and Surin delivers on both!

Parker Jones Century Automotive Group

Biography: Parker Jones lives in Huntsville with his wife Sarah and their two beautiful children, Allie and Lawson. Parker has been at Century Automotive Group since 2016, when he joined his mother Tracey and father George in the beloved family business. Parker has been pivotal to the growth and transformation of Century Automotive. From spearheading the construction and operations of the new Century Pre-Owned Center that has created a whole new revenue stream and customer pool, to championing the push to embrace the digital future of the car industry and retail in general. As of January 1, Parker has been promoted to GM of Century BMW and is excited for the challenge ahead. If his past successes are any indication, Century can expect a long and prosperous future ahead.

Huntsville has all of the advantages of those traditional hubs with few of the disadvantages. For starters, the cost of living is very reasonable. It doesn’t take a great deal to survive while beginning a career or starting a business. It’s surprising for many people to discover that Huntsville is a melting pot. Due to the large number of aerospace and defense companies in the area, the influx of so many highly educated people from various locations and backgrounds opens up numerous opportunities and fresh ideas for those looking to carve a new path through life. There are multiple business incubators and senior professionals looking for opportunities to mentor and coach that are very difficult to find in larger areas.

What is the best place in town to hang out in your free time?

The Ledges! Great golf, pool for the family and unbeatable views.

What is your favorite thing to do in Huntsville on the weekends?

My favorite thing to do is spend time downtown. We have many great coffee shops, restaurants, and activities to do all within walking distance.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy playing golf, hunting and spending time at the lake with my family.

Susan Locklear Matt Curtis Real Estate

Biography: Susan Locklear in her four years has helped develop Matt Curtis Real Estate toward being the #1 Real Estate Team in Alabama. Working with 40 agents and administrative employees to identify challenges and implement impactful solutions, Susan continuously evaluates the needs of her internal and external customers. In 2022, this included the implementation of a new CRM and Transaction Management system. Susan works with the strengths of her team allowing her to build on who they are, to shape a company that works and thrives together.

Huntsville was recently ranked the 4th most prosperous city and one of the best places for career building opportunities. Why do you think Huntdville is so unique for younger career seeking individuals and entrepreneurs?

Huntsville’s community is so diverse with several colleges, industries and job options. I believe there is unique pride and ownership in being a Huntsvillian. This prideful community is very invested in supporting its local business, entrepreneurs and career up and comers.

How is your experience unique in your field, and what are you doing personally to innovate and produce change in your field?

My experience is unique because I don’t have a background in Real Estate. I started at Matt Curtis after 5 years as a District Manager for a retailer - my specialty is people and problem solving. I enjoy helping my team perform at their best. I’m more focused on learning what we as a team can do, where we want to be and then bridging any gaps.