North Carolina Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley has appointed Kenny Flowers as the new Chief Deputy Secretary for the Department of Commerce. Flowers will assume leadership of key operational areas and strategic initiatives starting August 1, 2025.
Flowers has a background in economic and community development, with a focus on supporting rural communities. For eight years, he served as Assistant Secretary for the Department’s Rural Economic Development Division. During his tenure, he supported the creation of over 28,000 jobs and directed more than $715 million in grant funding to rural communities.
“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 role, Flowers will lead strategic operations and programs within the department. He will work closely with internal teams and state leaders to drive economic growth and support 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 from Anson County and brings personal connection along with professional experience to his work in rural development. 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.
Flowers holds degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. He succeeds Jordan Whichard in this role.
