CITY HIRES FIRST ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION PRESIDENT/CEO

A person in a suit.

The City of Greenville has hired Sam Konduros to lead business recruitment, investor relations and work collaboratively with economic development partners for the Greenville City Economic Development Corporation (GCEDC). Konduros, who describes himself as “mission-driven” and an “entrepreneur at heart,” is a licensed attorney, certified economic developer and realtor. He’s held multiple business leadership roles regionally and statewide including President/CEO of Upstate SC Alliance and President/CEO of SCBio (South Carolina Biotechnology Industry Organization).

Konduros began his career at the SC Department of Commerce where he helped recruit a wave of international companies into South Carolina. He is a graduate of Clemson University and the University of South Carolina School of Law. He was designated as a “Knowledge Economist” by South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) and was awarded the Order of the Palmetto by the Governor in 2018.

“The City of Greenville prides itself in its innovation and 24/7 vibrance. Sam is a dynamic, high-energy leader, with decades of experience and strong relationships. It’s a perfect pairing,” said Mayor Knox White. “Through his service on the Board of Directors at the Greenville Chamber and executive roles at partner agencies, Sam has the institutional knowledge of an insider, but will bring fresh perspective to the City of Greenville’s economic development efforts.”

The GCEDC was established by City Council in June of 2023 to implement the City’s Economic Development Strategic Plan with a focus on real estate and property development, small and minority business, retail, marketing, investor relations and business recruitment. The GCEDC is a 501(c)3 with a board of directors and the ability to raise private funds.

“With his track record of successfully setting up economic development organizations in South Carolina, which are still thriving today, we are thrilled to have Sam join the City of Greenville to establish the GCEDC to deliver corporate headquarters, recruit retailers and restaurants, and support our small business owners,” said City Councilor John DeWorken.

Konduros, who lives in Greenville County, is expected to begin his new role in April.

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Paige Durham

SCbio is pleased to welcome Paige Durham to the team as communications coordinator to creatively and effectively communicate the value of the life science association’s programs and initiatives.

Durham will be responsible for developing and distributing high-quality content across multiple communications channels to build, advance and grow South Carolina’s life sciences industry, a key business sector for economic prosperity for the Palmetto State.

“SCbio is excited to welcome Paige to our team as our new communications coordinator. Paige brings fresh ideas and a strong background in communications that will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our engagement with our audience,” said SCbio President and CEO James Chappell. “We are confident that her skills and experience will be crucial in advancing our communication strategies and supporting our mission.”

Before joining SCbio, Durham was the Membership and Communications Manager at the South Carolina Pharmacy Association (SCPhA), where she used her photography, design and writing skills to create content tailored to pharmacy professionals. Durham’s effective communication skills guaranteed the delivery of brand-specific material that captured the eye of her audience.

During her time at SCPhA, Durham created and edited the Palmetto Pharmacist Journal, using her creative vision to showcase members, educational institutions and industry news. Her communications efforts successfully gained new followers for the organization over the course of a year, increasing brand visibility and promoting the pharmacy profession.

Durham holds a Bachelor of Science in hospitality and tourism management and a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the College of Charleston.

Tamia Sumpter

Tamia is a driven senior undergraduate Bioengineering student currently enrolled at Clemson University. With a strong foundation in her field, she has honed her skills through hands-on experience in research and development at Eli Lilly & Company. During her time in the ADME department, Tamia contributed significantly by working on siRNAs and their applications in finding In Vitro-In Vivo Correlation (IVIVC). Looking ahead, Tamia has set her sights on a promising career in law. She aspires to specialize in Intellectual Property Law, with a particular focus on serving as in-house counsel for leading medical device or pharmaceutical companies. Her enthusiasm for this role is palpable as she prepares to embark on her legal journey! She is also a proud member of the Omicron Phi chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., PEER Mentor for Clemson PEER/WiSE, and currently serves as the President of Clemson Bioengineering Organization (CBO). With her unique blend of scientific knowledge and legal interests, Tamia is poised to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare and life sciences industries.