LaChaun Banks has over a decade of experience in human resources, customer relations and business operations. She earned a BA in International Studies from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, with a concentration in global economics, trade, and development. Having studied at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, she gained knowledge in Asian business and management, and Chinese government and politics. While earning her Executive MBA from Kenan-Flagler Business School, Banks consulted for a high-growth tech start-up in Copenhagen, Denmark. In a previous role as commercialization manager, Banks created business plans for advanced technologies with a local aerospace company.
As Associate Director for NCGrowth, she leads programs in economic development, and manages teams that support local start-ups and businesses in rural areas. Tripling capacity of the program by implementing new initiatives and increasing visibility with state-wide and federal partners, Banks is able to leverage a large network of resources to provide support to economically challenged regions of the state. Her focus in her current role is on creating jobs and equitable opportunities for people across the state.