In an effort to provide readers with a more personal, inside look at the people that make up our team here at S.C. Commerce, we’re excited to kick off a new ‘Getting to Know’ series. Featuring interviews with various members of the Commerce staff, we hope this addition will offer a unique perspective from some of the state’s top economic developers. In this week’s edition, we spoke with Amy Thomson, director of International Strategy and Trade (IST):
Q: During your career, you have worked at both S.C. Commerce and U.S. Commerce. What were some of the things you learned working for the federal government that you’ve been able to apply in your role here?
A: S.C. Commerce and U.S. Commerce have a long-standing partnership; it’s not like that in every state. We are in our sixth year of securing federal and state grant funds to help existing S.C. firms market products overseas. And, as it happens, we use the U.S. Commercial Service’s overseas network (their staff are housed in embassies all over the world) to assist our companies. Many people are unaware of this incredible network that exists overseas -- with the sole purpose of representing U.S. companies in their individual markets. Working for seven years with the U.S. Commercial Service gave me great insight into the many services this global network can provide our companies.
Q: If you could go back and give one piece of advice to your younger self on your first day at S.C. Commerce, what would it be?
A: My first foray at S.C. Commerce was in 1999! I guess my advice would be to not underestimate my abilities and be confident in my decisions, but I think that just comes with age and experience.
Q: What are some of the aspects of your current role as director of IST that inspire you the most?
A: First and foremost -- the IST team! We have a team that has nearly 90 years of cumulative experience in international business and trade. We have fun, we work hard and take an “all hands on deck” approach when individuals face crunch time.
Another aspect that inspires me is our direct impact on the State of South Carolina. Our division does international outreach for both trade and foreign direct investment (FDI); so, when an existing manufacturer or service provider gains new business internationally because of our efforts, that means the company is likely to expand, in size and workforce, because of the new business. And, when we attract international prospects that our Global Business Development team can then grow into existing industry, they bring jobs into our local communities. That’s very gratifying.
Q: Looking ahead, what’s something that you’d like to see your team accomplish in 2018?
A: For existing industry -- we want to continue to introduce them to new markets for their products. We want existing companies operating in our state to globally diversify their client base, and they need to know there is global interest in all things made in the U.S.
For investment in our state, we want to continue to grow our foreign recruitment reach. And, that includes bringing in prospects from less mature markets.
And, on a lighter note:
Q: What book, movie or TV show could you not do without?
A: I’m not one to read books more than once; there are too many that I’ve yet to read! But, “To Kill a Mockingbird” had a major impact on me. As far as movies and television shows go, my daughter and I can recite “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” every time we watch it, and I usually play an episode of “Parks and Recreation” at night when I’m winding down. It’s always nice to end the day laughing.
Q: What’s the best concert you’ve ever attended?
A: If you had asked me a month ago, I would have said -- hands down -- U2, but my husband and I recently took our teenage daughter to see the Foo Fighters. Not only was it an amazing show (three hours on our feet!), but there’s nothing better than sharing the love of music with your family.