The Brunswick Business and Industry Development Board of Directors hired Jason Semple to serve as the its director of business development, according to a news release.

Semple began his economic development career in 2005 as director of operations and marketing for the Martin County (NC) Economic Development Corp. (MCEDC).

In 2008, he joined the N.C. Department of Commerce Business & Industry Division as a regional economic developer and later served as the statewide economic development analyst with the Office of Digital Infrastructure, the state’s lead organization for broadband initiatives, according to the release.

Most recently, he served as president and CEO of the MCEDC. Collectively, his efforts resulted in more than 4,000 jobs created or retained and $650 million in tax base, the release stated. He also has private sector experience in supply chain logistics and sales and marketing.

BBID Executive Director Bill Early said in the release Semple “brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, and we look forward to continued economic development success in Brunswick County with his addition.”

According to the release, Semple joins BBID "to bolster its efforts as Brunswick County’s lead organization in recruiting and retaining industry. He is charged with helping to implement the economic development strategic plan, which focuses on growing targeted industry clusters aligned with local strengths and assets."

 “I am honored and thankful to be selected as the director of business development,” Semple said in the release. “I look forward to embracing my new home and joining a great team. The growth potential in Brunswick County is truly exciting.”

Semple earned a bachelor's degree from Emory University and has completed several courses toward his Certified Economic Developers certification from the International Economic Development Council. He has been involved with a diverse array of organizations and boards, including the Small Business Technology & Development Center Advisory Board, Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children and Rotary International.