Michael Smith

President
Office: 919-542-8278
michael.smith@chathamcountync.gov

Michael Smith is an experienced economic development professional with more than 20 years serving in local organizations and with the NC Department of Commerce.

At his most recent position in Lee County, he had significant success in business recruitment and product development. Smith has served as the President of the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA).  He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master’s Degree in Geography with a concentration in Urban/Regional Planning from East Carolina University.

Ann Fitts

Marketing and Communications Manager
Office: 919-542-8275
ann.fitts@chathamcountync.gov

Ann Fitts serves as the Marketing and Communications Manager for the Chatham Economic Development Corporation. She leads the organization’s marketing and communication efforts and facilitates outreach to the organization’s stakeholders and the broader community.

Ann joined the Chatham Economic Development Corporation after graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in Communication Studies and Political Science.

A native of Eden, North Carolina, Ann enjoys travelling throughout North Carolina and the Southeast, and is a devoted fan of Carolina Basketball.

Phillip Thompson

Project Manager
Office: 919-542-8278
phillip.thompson@chathamcountync.gov

Phillip Thompson is the project manager for the Chatham Economic Development Corporation, focusing on business recruitment and attraction.  He will be responsible for working projects for companies trying to relocate or expand in Chatham County.

Thompson earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration at Appalachian State University, where his studies focused on risk management, insurance, finance, and banking. Prior to joining the EDC, Phillip worked in commercial insurance in Sanford.

Phillip resides in Pittsboro and is excited to bring new opportunities to the county.

Jack Pendergraph

Business Retention and Expansion Specialist
Office: 919-542-8380
jack.pendergraph@chathamcountync.gov

Jack Pendergraph serves as the Business Retention and Expansion Specialist for the Chatham County Economic Development Corporation. His role focuses on growing the County’s existing industries by connecting them with expansion opportunities offered by our public, private, and non-profit partners across North Carolina.

Jack joined the EDC after earning his Master of Public Administration from the School of Government at UNC Chapel Hill. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from East Carolina University. Jack’s economic development practice began at a regional council of government in Washington, NC.

An Alamance County native, Jack still resides in Saxapahaw, and enjoys the outdoors, fishing, and ECU athletics.