About Us

Roger Johnson, Director

Roger Johnson is the director of the Mecklenburg County Office of Economic Development. He is responsible for leading a team that promotes economic growth and opportunities for residents and businesses through a variety of programs and services.

Prior to joining the County in 2023, Roger spent 15 years working in all aspects of economic development for three different local governments, most recently serving as Economic Development director for Albermarle County in Virginia. He also has more than 10 years supervisory, management and leadership experience working for Progress-Energy Florida (now Duke Energy), including leading Progress-Energy Florida’s statewide Metering Department. 

Roger holds a bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University, a master’s degree from UNC-Pembroke, and post baccalaureate accreditation from NC State and UNC-Chapel Hill.

Johnson is supported in his role by Deputy Economic Development Director Shahid “Sha” Rana, Business Diversity and Inclusion Director Jamila Davis, as well as a diverse and talented team of professionals.

Headshot of Roger Johnson, director of the Office of Economic Development

Meet Our Staff

The Mecklenburg County Office of Economic Development team works seamlessly with our community partners to assist businesses in all aspects of the site selection process. For general questions, you can email us at [email protected].

OED Headshot Photo Megan Witt

Megan Witt

Program Administration

Barry Turner

Barry Turner

Business Diversity & Inclusion (BDI)

OED Headshot Photo of Mark Stewart

Mark A. Stewart

Small Business Concierge

OED Headshot Photo of Janelly Rosales

Janelly Rosales

Small Business Lending and Credit Coaching

Jamila Davis

Jamila R. Davis

Business Diversity & Inclusion (BDI)

OED Headshot Photo of Arkeisha Whitley

Keisha Whitley

Business Manager

OED Headshot Photo of Agustin Velasquez

Agustin Velasquez

Business Attraction & Existing Industry

OED Headshot Photo of Clay Andrews

Clay Andrews

Existing Industry

OED Headshot Photo of Monica Grier

Monica Grier

Business Diversity & Inclusion (BDI)

OED Headshot Photo of John Walton

John L. Walton

Business Diversity & Inclusion (BDI)

Aviance McKenzie, OED staff

Aviance McKenzie

Business Diversity & Inclusion

Jamari Timmons, OED staff

Jamari Timmons

Business Diversity & Inclusion