North Carolina Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley has appointed Kenny Flowers as the new Chief Deputy Secretary for the Department of Commerce. Flowers will take on this role starting August 1, 2025, and will oversee key operational areas and strategic initiatives.
Flowers has a strong background in economic and community development, with a focus on supporting rural communities in North Carolina. Over the past eight years, he served as the Assistant Secretary for the Department’s Rural Economic Development Division. During his tenure, he helped create over 28,000 jobs and directed more than $715 million in grant funding to rural areas for infrastructure and economic development projects.
“In every corner of the state, and especially in our rural counties, Kenny Flowers has built trust, delivered results, and helped create opportunities where they’re needed most,” said Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “His vision, collaborative spirit, and proven track record make him the ideal choice to serve as Chief Deputy Secretary.”
In his new position, Flowers will lead strategic operations and programs within the department. He will collaborate with internal teams, local partners, and state leaders to foster economic growth and workforce development.
“I am thrilled to return to the Commerce team,” said Flowers. “Commerce plays a critical role in the overall economic development success of our state.”
Flowers is originally from Anson County and brings both personal connection and professional experience to his work. Before becoming Assistant Secretary in 2017, he was Assistant Vice Chancellor for Community and Regional Development at East Carolina University.
Earlier roles include Director of Rural Development at the North Carolina Department of Commerce and Fiscal Analyst at the North Carolina General Assembly.
He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a master’s degree from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor.
Flowers takes over from Jordan Whichard who served nearly ten years in public service for North Carolina.
