CLIENTS
American Fujikura Limited Global
Brennan Investments
BrooksGlover Group
Evoluxon Logistics
Freudenberg NA
Green Metals Inc.
Greenwood Fabricating & Plating
Hounen Solar America
Kearney Co.
Kiswel US
LioChem e-Materials Kentucky
Logisticus Group (4)
Magna NA
Mixon Investments
Moore Food Resources
Nature’s Value
Oatly Inc
Ottobock
Pet Supply Plus
Precision Terminal Logistics
Sempra Energy
Slumbershield Inc.
Sunnex Tools
Thermo King
Toyota Tsusho America
Walmart
Wingfan
Zeus Industries (6)
The Aberdeen Carolina & Western Railway
Norfolk Southern Railroad
North Carolina Railroad
BNSF Railroad
Atlas Insight
Global Location Strategies
McQuire Sponsel
Whitaker Park Development Authority
Laurens Electric Coop/Connexial Center Industrial Park
Superland Holdings/Shamrock Commerce Center
Orangeburg County/City Industrial Park - Building 1
Sandy Run Industrial Park
Calhoun County Industrial Park
Carolina Connector Rail Park
Mobile Gateway Park
Avondale Multimodal Park
HAL JOHNSON, SIOR
CONSULTANT | INDUSTRIAL REAL ESTATE BROKER
Hal Johnson is a nationally recognized leader in site selection, economic development, and industrial real estate strategy, bringing decades of experience in corporate expansion, infrastructure planning, and business attraction. As the leader of NAI READY, Hal provides full-service site selection, incentive negotiation, and strategic advisory solutions to businesses, developers, and economic organizations across the country.
With a deep understanding of rail, port, power, and industrial site selection, Hal has helped global corporations, manufacturers, and logistics firms secure optimal locations while maximizing financial incentives and reducing development risks. Throughout his career, he has worked with major companies such as BMW, Magna, Walmart, Oatly Inc., Pet Supply Plus, AFL Communications, Lennox International, Food Lion, Husqvarna, Zeus, and many more overseeing projects ranging from 50,000 SF to over 800,000 SF.
Areas of Expertise:
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Expertise in Site Selection & Economic Development – With decades of experience in corporate expansion, industrial real estate, and business attraction, Hal helps businesses, developers, and communities identify the most strategic sites, secure incentives, and reduce risk. His ability to navigate complex market conditions ensures profitable, long-term site solutions for clients.
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Strong Industry Leadership & High-Impact Relationships – As a former President & CEO of Upstate SC Alliance and a leader in regional and national economic development organizations, Hal brings a vast network of industry, government, and corporate connections. His relationships help accelerate deals, secure incentives, and connect clients with key decision-makers.
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Real-World Business & Infrastructure Strategy – Having worked with major global corporations like BMW, Michelin, Walmart, and Magna, Hal understands what businesses need to succeed. His expertise in rail, port, and power site selection ensures that clients secure cost-effective, infrastructure-ready locations that support long-term operational success.
Before leading NAI READY, Hal served as President and CEO of the Upstate SC Alliance, where he played a pivotal role in economic development, business recruitment, and regional growth strategies. His background also includes key leadership positions with the Orangeburg County Development Commission and the South Carolina Department of Commerce, where he helped drive investment and job creation at both local and state levels.
Hal has been recognized for his contributions to the industry, including being named 2013 Economic Developer of the Year by the South Carolina Economic Development Association. He also served as Chairman of the Southern Economic Development Council in 2014 and currently holds leadership roles within NAI Global’s Elite Corporate Services and Logistics Teams.
With real-world expertise, strategic insights, and a results-driven approach, Hal Johnson and NAI READY help businesses and communities secure the right sites, negotiate competitive incentives, and build strong economic futures.
Education:
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B.S. in Business Administration, The Citadel, 1988
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Economic Development Institute, University of Oklahoma, 2002
Professional Development & Awards:
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Basic Economic Development, University of NC, 1997
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International Economic Developers Council
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SC Advanced Symposium, College of Charleston, 2001
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Certified South Carolina Economic Developer since 2001
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IAMC, Member 2002 – 2013, 2018 – present
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2003 Economic Developer of the Year – National Rural Economic Developers Association
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2003 Leadership South Carolina
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South Carolina Economic Developers Association (SCEDA), President, 2005, Board of Directors 2000-2006
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2007 Haynesworth Sinkler Boyd P.A. – International Economic Development Award
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Southern Economic Development Council – Chairman, 2014; Board of Directors, 2009 to present
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2013 Economic Developer of the Year – South Carolina Economic Development Association
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2022 SIOR Designation
ELLEN JOHNSON
HAL'S HANDLER | STRATEGIC OPERATIONS | MARKETING
With a background in executive operations, marketing strategy, and financial services, Ellen plays a key role in driving ELHG’s success. As Hal’s wife, and official “handler”, she ensures seamless coordination and execution of high-level initiatives while managing key marketing efforts.
An experienced marketing strategist and business leader, Ellen has launched multiple coaching programs and branding accelerators, helping professionals and companies maximize their visibility, profitability, and impact. She brings deep expertise in digital marketing, process optimization, and strategic growth initiatives.
In addition to her marketing leadership, Ellen has an extensive financial background, including time as a Certified Financial Planner at Merrill Lynch. This financial acumen allows her to effectively manage tax incentive strategies, helping ELHG’s clients leverage government tax credits and reduce expenses which allows them to expand operations and accelerate their industry presence.
Areas of Expertise:
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Strategic Operations & Executive Leadership – As Hal's handler and strategic partner, Ellen ensures the seamless execution of high-level initiatives, managing operations, schedules, and priorities. Her ability to streamline processes, coordinate projects, and enhance productivity makes her a vital force behind the company’s success.
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Marketing & Brand Growth Expertise – With extensive experience in marketing strategy, Ellen plays a key role in positioning ELHG as an industry leader. From digital campaigns to strategic partnerships, she helps enhance the company’s visibility and drive engagement with key stakeholders.
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Tax Management & Financial Strategy – With a background as a Certified Financial Planner at Merrill Lynch, Ellen specializes in tax incentive strategies, helping our clients leverage government tax credits, reduce operational costs, and maximize financial opportunities. Her expertise ensures businesses can expand operations efficiently while strengthening their industry presence.
Passionate about community and leadership, she has served on multiple advisory boards, emceed the 10th Anniversary DIG SOUTH Tech Summit, and spoken at major business and entrepreneurship conferences. Her ability to blend marketing, finance, and strategic operations makes her an invaluable asset to the NAI READY team, ensuring both internal efficiency and external brand growth.
With a background in executive operations, marketing strategy, and financial services, Ellen plays a key role in driving NAI READY’s success. As Hal’s wife, executive assistant (and official “handler”), she ensures seamless coordination and execution of high-level initiatives while managing key marketing efforts and tax management services.
An experienced marketing strategist and business leader, Ellen has launched multiple coaching programs and branding accelerators, helping professionals and companies maximize their visibility, profitability, and impact. She brings deep expertise in digital marketing, process optimization, and strategic growth initiatives.
In addition to her marketing leadership, Ellen has an extensive financial background, including time as a Certified Financial Planner at Merrill Lynch. This financial acumen allows her to effectively manage tax incentive strategies, helping NAI READY’s clients leverage government tax credits and reduce expenses which allows them to expand operations and accelerate their industry presence.
Areas of Expertise:
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Strategic Operations & Executive Leadership – As Hal Johnson’s executive assistant and strategic partner, Ellen ensures the seamless execution of high-level initiatives, managing operations, schedules, and priorities to keep NAI READY running efficiently. Her ability to streamline processes, coordinate projects, and enhance productivity makes her a vital force behind the company’s success.
-
Marketing & Brand Growth Expertise – With extensive experience in marketing strategy, Ellen plays a key role in positioning NAI READY as an industry leader. From digital campaigns to strategic partnerships, she helps enhance the company’s visibility and drive engagement with key stakeholders.
-
Tax Management & Financial Strategy – With a background as a Certified Financial Planner at Merrill Lynch, Ellen specializes in tax incentive strategies, helping NAI READY’s clients leverage government tax credits, reduce operational costs, and maximize financial opportunities. Her expertise ensures businesses can expand operations efficiently while strengthening their industry presence.
Passionate about community and leadership, she has served on multiple advisory boards, emceed the 10th Anniversary DIG SOUTH Tech Summit, and spoken at major business and entrepreneurship conferences. Her ability to blend marketing, finance, and strategic operations makes her an invaluable asset to the NAI READY team, ensuring both internal efficiency and external brand growth.
WHY CHOOSE US?
No upfront fees. No obligation. You only pay if we produce measurable results.
Proven Success In Helping You Navigate the Complex Energy Markets
As an independent, unbiased energy consultant, we help our customers compare multiple procurement options from energy suppliers to find the most competitive energy choices and assist your business with an overall energy strategy.
No Financial Risk
We operate on a contingency model—you only pay when we deliver savings.
Real Savings Fast
We deliver immediate savings and long-term efficiencies through rate restructuring and billing corrections.
No Disruption
We work with your current utility vendors and infrastructure—no switching or downtime required.
Sustainability with ROI
We align cost savings with ESG goals through energy-efficient upgrades and usage optimization.
End-to-End Service
From audit to implementation, we handle everything—analysis, negotiation, documentation, and follow-through.
Transparent, Proven Process
Every engagement begins with a proof of concept and projected savings, so you know the value before you commit.