PITTSBORO, N.C. — August 19, 2026 — The Chatham Economic Development Corporation (Chatham EDC) is pleased to announce that Josh Fasnacht has joined the organization as its new Business Retention and Expansion Manager. Fasnacht will primarily focus on supporting Chatham County’s existing industries and employers, serving as a key point of contact to understand business needs, identify opportunities for growth and expansion, and connect local employers with resources and solutions.
“We’re excited to welcome another native North Carolinian to our team.” Says President of the Chatham EDC, Michael Smith. “He brings valuable private-sector experience and has already demonstrated his commitment to economic development by joining the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA) as he makes the transition into the profession. We’re pleased to have him on board and look forward to the perspective and energy he’ll bring to our work.”
In his role, Fasnacht will lead business retention and expansion (BRE) outreach by meeting directly with employers to identify opportunities and challenges related to workforce, infrastructure, permitting and other factors that impact business operations. He will also coordinate with local, regional and state partners to help connect businesses with resources and solutions.
Fasnacht is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned a degree in Economics with minors in History and Entrepreneurship
Fasnacht brings experience in project management, business outreach, research and relationship development. Most recently, he served as a Client Development Lead at proSapient, where he managed complex research projects and cultivated relationships with more than 1,600 C-level executives. During his time with the company, he was also recognized as a top performer on his team.
His previous experience includes marketing, request for proposal (RFP) pursuit management and customer relationship management (CRM) analytics with Ramey Kemp and Associates, as well as community engagement support with Raleigh Founded. His skills in relationship-building, project management, research, and sales make him an incredible asset to the Chatham EDC team.
“I’m very excited to join the Chatham County EDC team.” Says Fasnacht. “I look forward to working closely with our local business community, building strong partnerships, and supporting the retention and expansion of the industries that drive our economy and communities forward.”
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About Chatham Economic Development Corporation
Chatham County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is the lead economic development agency for Chatham County. The EDC is a 501(c)3 economic development non-profit that provides support to businesses throughout the county and markets Chatham County as the preferred location for emerging growth companies.
About Chatham County
Chatham County takes center stage in North Carolina, strategically located between the Research Triangle and Piedmont Triad. The third-fastest growing county in the state is home to the towns of Pittsboro, Siler City and Goldston as well as several unique rural communities. Residents and visitors alike enjoy 30+ miles of trails and abundant greenspace, 5 golf courses, and an additional 85 miles of greenways are in the works. Chatham also features Jordan Lake, the second-most visited state park in North Carolina. Chatham Park, one of the largest mixed-use developments in the nation is currently underway in Pittsboro.
Contact
Monica Alvarado, Marketing and Communications Specialist
Office: 919-545-8380
Cell: 919-548-7311
