James LaBar is the Chief Economic and Community Development Officer for Charlotte Center City Partners. He is focused on leading cross-functional teams and practicing place-based economic and community development. James collaborates with the entire economic development ecosystem to retain, expand, and attract businesses, talent, and investment in Center City. He has a diverse professional background spanning non-profit, government, and business sectors with a focus on influencing a community’s growth to a higher trajectory by increasing the productivity of businesses and people to raise the standard of living for all.

Prior to joining Charlotte Center City Partners, James served as the Regional Solutions Director and Policy Advisor for Housing, Economy and Jobs for Oregon Governor Kate Brown. He also worked for the Salt River Project, an award-winning utility in Phoenix, Arizona, as the Manager of Strategic Engagement – State and Local Government Relations. James earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Cincinnati, a master’s degree from the University of West Florida and completed Ph.D. coursework at Arizona State University. James and his wife, Janet, live in Charlotte with their three children.