Former Alabama Power executive Steve R. Spencer has been elected president of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, succeeding Bill Taylor, was has served in that role since 2009. The EDPA board today announced the move, which is effective April 1.
Taylor is a former president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz U.S. International in Vance, and he played a key role in the start-up of the automaker’s Alabama plant. He was instrumental in establishing the Mercedes Production System, now a standard for quality and efficiency at the company’s plants around the world.
“My time at EDPA has been a rewarding experience,” Taylor said. “I have had the opportunity to work with dedicated team members who strive every day to make Alabama a leader in business attraction and expansion.”
Greg Canfield, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, noted Taylor’s contributions in the state.
“Bill Taylor has played a central role in the growth of Alabama’s auto industry, both in a leadership role at Mercedes as the automaker repeatedly expanded its Alabama assembly plant and at EDPA, where he served as an important team player in the effort that has made the state a key production hub in this global industry,” Canfield said.
“His contribution has been significant, and his energies will be missed.”
EDPA Chairman Mark Crosswhite also praised Taylor’s leadership.
“Bill has been a force in economic development and in the automotive industry. We wish him the very best in retirement,” he said.
DEEP EXPERIENCE
Spencer joins EDPA after a 37-year career at Alabama Power.
“We are thrilled that Steve has agreed to take on this vitally important position,” said Crosswhite, who serves as CEO of Alabama Power. “Steve has been actively involved in economic development in Alabama for decades, and he brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and leadership skills to the organization.”
As executive vice president at Alabama Power, Spencer was responsible for all operations that touch the utility’s 1.4 million customers, including economic development. In prior roles, he oversaw state and federal governmental relations, as well as regulatory affairs, community development, public relations and environmental affairs.
Spencer also has held leadership roles at Southern Nuclear Operating Company and at Southern Company in Atlanta, serving as senior vice president of external affairs.
“I am excited to be joining the extraordinary team at EDPA,” Spencer said. “They are making a difference every day in promoting Alabama as a great place to do business. I look forward to doing what I can to support them and to contribute to their success.”
A Birmingham native, Spencer is a graduate of Woodlawn High School and Auburn University. He also completed the Executive Finance and Accounting Program.
