Montgomery, AL – After a distinguished tenure spanning 12 years, Alabama Department of Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield is set to retire at the end of the year, marking the end of an era in Alabama’s economic development landscape. Governor Kay Ivey announced Canfield’s retirement and introduced Ellen McNair, a seasoned economic development professional, as the incoming Secretary of Commerce.
Throughout his time as Secretary of Commerce, Greg Canfield played a pivotal role in solidifying Alabama’s reputation as a top state for doing business. Under his leadership, the state successfully secured more than $42 billion in new investments, resulting in the creation of 78,000 well-paying jobs. Governor Ivey lauded Canfield’s achievements and credited him with being a driving force behind transformative projects such as Mazda Toyota and the global recognition of the “Made in Alabama” brand.
Canfield was not only a leader within Commerce but also an advocate for pro-business legislation, championing initiatives such as The Game Plan, Alabama’s economic incentive package, which passed in 2023. This legislation is poised to bolster Alabama’s ability to attract businesses, foster industrial growth, and support existing companies for years to come.
Before joining the public sector, Canfield had a successful career in the private industry. He took the reins of the Alabama Development Office in 2011, leading its transformation into the Department of Commerce. During his tenure, Alabama launched its inaugural strategic economic development plan, Accelerate Alabama, setting records in international exports, capital investment, and job creation. Canfield’s dedication extended globally, as he represented Alabama on business and trade missions to 30 countries, and he was recognized for initiating Commerce’s successful rural development strategy.
Reflecting on his time as Secretary of Commerce, Canfield expressed pride in his contribution to Alabama’s future. He expressed confidence that the state is well-positioned for a robust era of economic expansion under his successor, Ellen McNair.
McNair, who will take office in the new year, currently serves as the Chief Economic Development Officer with the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. During her tenure with the Chamber, McNair led almost 600 national and international projects, attracting a capital investment of over $8 billion and facilitating the creation of nearly 30,000 new jobs in the Montgomery community.
Governor Ivey, who has known McNair since her tenure at the Alabama Development Office, expressed her confidence in McNair’s ability to be of significant value to the state. McNair’s deep understanding of the impact of economic development on Alabama families and her track record of success in the Montgomery area make her a standout choice for this critical role.
Ellen McNair brings an impressive 40 years of economic development experience to her new position, along with a series of firsts. Notably, she was the first female project manager at the Alabama Department of Commerce, the first woman Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) in Alabama, the first woman to lead a major metro area’s economic development effort in the state, and in January, she will become the first woman to serve as the Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce.
Secretary Canfield will continue to serve until the end of the year, ensuring a seamless transition. McNair’s appointment will take effect on January 1, 2024, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Alabama’s economic development journey.
