New director to lead agency’s research initiatives, support economic development
COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina Department of Commerce today announced that Benjamin D. Johnson has joined the agency as research director. Johnson will manage an interdisciplinary team of researchers and analysts who support the mission of the Department of Commerce as the lead economic development agency of the state.
An experienced research professional, he brings a wealth of management and research skills to the agency, which will be instrumental in supporting the state’s ongoing industry recruitment efforts. Before accepting this new role, Johnson served as senior research analyst for CBRE and research and client services director at Newmark Grubb Wilson Kibler.
Johnson holds bachelor’s degrees in finance and marketing and a master’s degree in business administration with a concentration in international business, from the University of South Carolina. He is a graduate of the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Columbia program and currently serves on the Eau Claire Development Corporation Board.