Jared Smith

Jared Smith currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer of the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA). In this position, Smith has a leadership role in the organization’s economic development, planning, operations, partnership building and strategy.

Prior to joining the LVGEA, Smith served as director of business development for the Baton Rouge Area Chamber (BRAC). He worked closely with the Mayor, Metropolitan Council, and other stakeholders to recruit and retain companies to East Baton Rouge Parish. Notable wins for the Baton Rouge area during his tenure include IBM’s 800-job technology center, Katoen Natie’s two-million-square-foot logistics facility, and many other small business expansions.

A native of Rayville, Louisiana, Smith earned a BA from Louisiana State University and his MBA from Southeastern Louisiana University. He is a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD), and his experience includes working with C-level executives on business and strategic development, banking, and management. Smith also served as Chairman of the Baton Rouge Airport Commission and President of the East Baton Rouge Industrial Development Board.