Staff Report

COLUMBIA -- Otis B. Rawl Jr. has succeeded S. Hunter Howard Jr. as president and CEO of the S.C. Chamber of Commerce.

“It has been an honor to work with Hunter in executing the South Carolina Chamber’s strategy to raise per capita income by increasing productivity and better positioning South Carolina in the global economy,” Rawl said. “Hunter spent 17 years building the chamber into one of the state’s most powerful and successful advocacy groups. I look forward to working closely with chamber members and associates to strengthen our state’s position in the competitive marketplace and create value for the business community.”

Rawl joined the chamber in 2001 as vice president of public policy. In 2004, he was named COO, overseeing public policy, legislative affairs, work force development, administration, membership and communications.

Previously, Rawl worked with the S.C. Department of Revenue for 23 years. He retired on Nov. 30, 2001, as deputy director for revenue and regulatory operations.

A native of Lexington, Rawl graduated from the University of South Carolina and received a bachelor’s degree from the School of Government and International Studies with a major in public administration and minors in English and history.