Platé is a seasoned economic development leader with nearly 30 years of experience, driving economic growth through strategic industrial and commercial recruitment at the county level in both North and South Carolina, generating almost $4 billion in capital investments and creating over 7,000 manufacturing jobs over his career.
“I appreciate the opportunity to work in Alexander County. I plan to use my years of experience and business network to help move Alexander County forward,” said Platé. “This is a wonderful county with lots of potential. I look forward to working with county leadership and the EDC Board of Directors to make an economic impact during my time here.”
County Manager Todd Herms said he is excited to have Platé on the team.
“Chris brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in economic development to Alexander County. His leadership will be instrumental in driving growth and attracting new industry,” said Herms. “We are excited to welcome him to the county and look forward to the positive impact he will make during his term as interim economic development director.”
From 1999 to 2024, he served as Executive Director of the Monroe-Union County Economic Development Commission. While there, Platé helped merge the City of Monroe and Union County’s economic development organizations, generated $3 billion of capital investment, created the largest aerospace cluster in North Carolina, developed three industrial parks, and built three speculative buildings.
He also served as Executive Director of the Chester County Economic Development Department from 1997-1999 and the York County Economic Development Board from 1995-1997.
Platé is a 1993 graduate of Clemson University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics with minors in Law and Political Science. He also completed professional economic development courses at the Georgia Institute of Technology and the University of Oklahoma.
Throughout his career, Platé has received national and international accolades, including serving as the President of the NC Economic Development Association, being named NC Economic Developer of the Year, and being selected repeatedly to Business NC’s “Power List: Top 100 Most Influential Leaders.”