Meet the economic development team driven by topophilia for Franklin County
Beth Simms
Director of Economic Development
Beth Simms is a Franklin County native, former small business owner, and economic development powerhouse. As director of economic development for the county, Simms works behind the scenes and in front of the business community to create business opportunities in the county. From bringing in new companies to helping Franklin County companies grow, to grant writing to push programs forward, Beth deploys her passion for economic development every day.
Simms is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute, completed the Basic Economic Development Course at Georgia Tech in 2020, and is a 2017 alumni of the EA Morris Fellowship of Emerging Leaders based out of North Carolina. She was previously the cultural and economic development director for the Town of Rocky Mount and earned her bachelor’s degree from Ferrum College.
Want to know more about economic development or how you can invest in our community? Contact Beth Simms today.
Amy Minnix
Economic Development Specialist
Amy Minnix is thrilled to have returned home. The Franklin County native and Ferrum College alum has recently joined Franklin County’s Economic Development Team as the Economic Development Specialist. Amy began her career with The Willard Companies in Hardy, VA where she spent twelve years before relocating to Florida. Comfortable working in large and small business environments, Amy brings extensive experience in marketing, long-range planning, and business development in both the Florida and North Carolina markets. In her new role, Amy will assist with the creation and execution of upcoming economic initiatives within Franklin County as well as nurture the marketing initiatives to residents, businesses, and prospective newcomers to the county.
