Emily J. Smith
About Emily J. Smith
Emily J. Smith serves as the Global Business Attraction Manager at American Electric Power, where she drives economic impact by attracting jobs and businesses to the company's service areas. With extensive experience in international trade development and a Juris Doctor degree, she has held various roles in state economic development agencies and the Ohio House of Representatives.
Work at American Electric Power
Emily J. Smith has been serving as the Global Business Attraction Manager at American Electric Power since 2017. In this role, she drives economic impact across AEP's 11-state service territory by attracting people and jobs to the communities served. She provides comprehensive location advisory services to international companies and existing customers seeking to expand or establish new operations. Additionally, she connects companies with tailored energy solutions to meet their specific needs, including increasing capacity, reducing costs, and achieving sustainability goals.
Previous Experience in Economic Development
Prior to her current role, Smith held several positions in economic development and international trade. She worked as the Director of International Trade at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation from 2016 to 2017. Before that, she served as the Global Trade Development Manager at the Ohio Development Services Agency from 2010 to 2014. Additionally, she worked as the International Trade Development Manager at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation from 2014 to 2016, accumulating nearly a decade of experience in international trade development at the state level.
Education and Expertise
Emily J. Smith earned her Juris Doctor degree from Capital University Law School, completing her studies from 2009 to 2013. She also holds dual bachelor's degrees in International Business and Spanish/International Relations from The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business, which she obtained from 2003 to 2008. Smith is a certified global business professional (CGBP), accredited by the National Association of Small Business International Trade Educators (NASBITE), highlighting her expertise in international trade.
Legislative Experience
Smith has experience in legislative roles, having worked as a Legislative Aide in the Ohio House of Representatives from 2009 to 2010. During her tenure, she served as the clerk of the Public Utilities Committee. Additionally, she was a Legislative Service Commission Fellow from 2008 to 2009 and worked as an International Trade Intern at the Ohio Department of Development from 2006 to 2007. These roles contributed to her understanding of the intersection between policy and economic development.