The Charlotte Regional Business Alliance® is pleased to announce Joe Bost has been named chief advocacy officer for the organization, effective immediately.
Bost will be responsible for leading the advocacy efforts at the CLT Alliance, one of the largest economic development organizations in the Southeast. In addition to managing policy development, Bost will oversee government affairs activities, political engagement, and coalition-building with other business organizations.
“Joe has garnered a reputation for being fair and for effectively building consensus,” CLT Alliance President and CEO Janet LaBar said. “He is a respected voice among policymakers representing the Charlotte Region in both Raleigh and Columbia, and he’s demonstrated a commitment to working with them to strengthen the Charlotte Region’s economy and competitiveness. The CLT Alliance is excited to recognize Joe’s leadership, knowledge, and enthusiasm for advocacy, and I’m proud to elevate him in this role.”
Bost has spent the last six years with the CLT Alliance (formerly the Charlotte Chamber), first as vice president of state and regional policy, then as senior vice president of government affairs. During his tenure, he has focused on building relationships with elected officials, staff, and key influencers, while trying to build consensus and support for the Charlotte Region’s legislative agenda at the local, state, and federal levels.
“There is great opportunity for the Charlotte Region to speak with one voice in Raleigh and Columbia,” CLT Alliance Advocacy Committee Chair Kevin McLaughlin said. “Joe understands the importance of building relationships and ensuring elected leaders hear about the issues that matter most to local businesses and the broader community. I am looking forward to what we can accomplish for the region together.”
Prior to joining the CLT Alliance, Bost spent five years working in the House of Representatives. He served as campaign manager for Rep. Patrick McHenry in 2014 and 2016, successfully guiding the congressman to re-election by his largest margins. Bost also served as McHenry’s regional representative, where he oversaw outreach efforts with a focus on economic development, business organizations, educational institutions, and non-profits.
Bost holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Lenoir-Rhyne University and an MBA from Liberty University. He was named a “Forty under 40” award winner by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, which honors emerging leaders in chambers of commerce.
A native of San Diego, California, Bost’s family has roots in the Charlotte Region dating back more than 200 years. Bost and his wife Caroline are the proud parents of two, Sadie and Henry. He enjoys cheering on his beloved Los Angeles Dodgers, spending time with family and friends, and a good audio book.
