Presents
Leading through Partnership: Tennessee’s Strategy for Global Investment
Join TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter on November 6 as he delivers the keynote address for the Tennessee World Affairs Council Distinguished Speaker Series. He will highlight how Tennessee’s focus on building strong, long-term relationships has made it a trusted partner for global companies for decades. With more than 1,000 international businesses operating in the state, these global brands are not only a testament to Tennessee’s welcoming business climate—they are among its strongest selling points in attracting new investment. Through the keynote address, attendees will gain a better understanding of how the state’s commitment to partnership, connectivity, and a personalized approach continues to set Tennessee apart on the global stage.
Thursday, November 6th I 11:10 am – 1:00 pm
* Luncheon Event *
Venue:
1221 Broadway, Suite 1300
Nashville, TN 37203
Register Now
Speaker: Stuart McWhorter (Commissioner, Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development)
Stuart C. McWhorter has served as TNECD commissioner since July 2022. During his tenure, TNECD has nearly 120 projects, which represent more than 17,000 job commitments and $9.7 billion in capital investment. Of those projects, more than 28 percent were the result of foreign direct investment.
McWhorter has a diverse background in entrepreneurship, corporate finance, and strategic planning. He served as co-founder and chairman of Clayton Associates with over 25 years of experience in entrepreneurship and early-stage investing.
McWhorter stepped away from Clayton Associates in 2019 to join Governor Lee’s administration as Commissioner of the Department of Finance and Administration. He led the drafting of two fiscal year state budgets, co-chaired the Governor’s Healthcare Modernization Task Force, and was appointed director of the Tennessee Unified Command Group to coordinate the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In addition, McWhorter previously served as the CEO of the Nashville Entrepreneur Center and chairman of the Board of Directors of Nashville-based FirstBank Financial Corporation (NYSE: FBK). He received his Master of Health Administration from The University of Alabama-Birmingham and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Clemson University.
McWhorter resides in Nashville with his wife, Leigh Anne, and their five children.
