Franklin Southampton Economic Development, Inc. Staff

Jay Brenchick

President and CEO

Jay Brenchick joined Franklin Southampton Economic Development, Inc. in July of 2019. Jay serves as the President and CEO, focusing on administering economic and industrial development activities throughout the City and County in order to expand the local tax base, retain and attract business to the area and to market the communities. 

Jay completed a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Advertising from
University of Maine, then went on to obtain a master’s degree in Education. Jay is an active member of the Franklin-Southampton Area Chamber of Commerce.

Contact: jbrenchick@franklinsouthamptonva.com

 

 

 

 

 

Ashley C. Covington

Marketing and Existing Business Manager

Ashley C. Covington joined Franklin Southampton Economic Development, Inc. in June of 2013. Currently Ashley serves as the Marketing and Existing Business Manager focusing on business expansion and retention. She is also tasked with managing the day to day operations of the Franklin Business Center.

Ashley received her B.S. from Longwood University in Business Administration. She is a member of the Downtown Franklin Association Board of Directors and she was awarded a 2015 and 2016 Virginia Economic Development Association scholarship.

Contact: acovington@franklinsouthamptonva.com  

 

 

 

 

 Lauren V. Sloan

Business Development Manager

Lauren V. Sloan joined Franklin Southampton Economic Development, Inc. in October of 2017. Lauren serves as the Business Development Manager for Franklin Southampton Economic Development, Inc., focusing on recruitment of entrepreneurs to the Franklin Business Center.  Lauren also represents Franklin Southampton with regional Toursm initiatives.

Lauren received her B.A. from Palm Beach Atlantic University in Communication Studies. She sits on the Membership Committee for tHRive, the Young Professionals organization of the Hampton Roads Chamber.

Contact: lsloan@franklinsouthamptonva.com

 

 

 

 Emily E. Ballance 

Administrative Assistant 

Emily E. Ballance joined Franklin Souhtampton Economic Development, Inc. in March of 2020. Emily serves as the Administrative Assistant for Franklin Southampton Economic Development, Inc. and assists with the day to day operations of the Franklin Business Center. 

Emily graduated with her Associate's Degree from Paul D. Camp Community College focusing on General Studies. 

Contact: admin@franklinsouthamptonva.com