Stephen Navarro

Title: President and CEO
Company/organization: The Furman Co., Inc.
Years at your current position: 40

Community partnerships important in building United Community headquarters in Greenville, S.C.

Back in December the GSA Business Report featured Meet the 50 Most Influential in South Carolina honorees Jason Thomas. Steve was one of the honorees.

Questions Asked From Stephen Navarro in South Carolina

When I (we) chose to move to South Carolina we did so because we wanted to raise a family in a place that matched our valuesbut near the mountains, having grown up on the west coast beaches. Professionals in the real estate and economic development arena influence change and are faced with choices and have a responsibility to recognize the positive and negative consequences of the growth we facilitate. What I am most proud of comes not from the projects, developments, or industries we have helped position to grow, but in maintaining a steadfast perspective of what makes our state great, remembering why I chose to come here, and then to help us grow with purpose, by choice and not by chance so future generations might do the same.

South Carolina has far too many strengths to be measured against each other. South Carolina is balanced; progressive in commerce and its economic values, holding quality of life and family first. South Carolina is empathetic to industry, both in procurement and retention for the employer and the employee. South Carolinas biggest challenges lie with growing forces of influence and change, and with our collective recognition of what makes us great and what can tear us down. So, when we seek economic growth, we should anticipate change to follow. What emerges is our greatest challenge. Maintaining our values and quality of life should be paramount.

I will let others be the judge of this. Finish this sentence: South Carolina will continue its positive economic momentum if… we remember what makes us special. One of the most unique things about South Carolina is that we have access to each other and there is a true spirit about cooperation. Leaders are three degrees of separation throughout the state and our approach and perception of PPP’s is unique. No one feels threatened, personal agendas can be set aside for the common good. We work together.