Jim Thomas, retired Regional Director for AT&T has recently been hired as a new addition to the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce staff. Thomas will be heading up Public Policy and Government Relations for the Chamber in partnership with the Upstate Chamber Coalition and will serve as the staff liaison for the Spartanburg Tomorrow Political Action committee.  Thomas has been a public servant and a leader in the Spartanburg business community for many years. He has served as Chairman of the Board for the Urban League, Palmetto Council for the Boyscouts of America, the Downtown Rotary Club, Junior Achievement and recently served as Chairman of the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors.  Thomas has also served Upstate non-profit organizations, serving on the Boards of The Arts Partnership, United Way of the Piedmont, Spartanburg Development Association, the Urban League Regional Board, South Carolina Arts Alliance, The American Red Cross, Spartanburg Little Theatre and Founding Chairman Cities in Schools.

“After a long career in the telephone industry that allowed me the flexibility to be involved in many facets of the community, I am delighted to be able to be a part of the Spartanburg Chamber team,” says Thomas. “I look forward to being able to contribute to the life of Spartanburg and support for the business agenda.”

In addition to his work with the Chamber’s legislative advocacy, Jim Thomas will be heading up a new membership initiative, partnering with existing member firms. The new program is to be rolled out this fall and with years of experience to call upon, Thomas will certainly be up to the task. Most recently, Jim Thomas was responsible for the PAC reception for SC House Ways & Means Chair Rep. Brian White and the Chamber Issues Forum held last week with US Senator Lindsey Graham.

“We are very proud to have Jim Thomas on board at the Spartanburg Area Chamber,” says David Cordeau, President and CEO of the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce. “His proven leadership and experience in working with several community organizations make him a great addition to the Chamber team.”

Jim Thomas can be reached at the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce at (864)594-5020 or by email at jthomas@spartanburgchamber.com.