VSU Welcomes LeFiles as Business Consultant

VALDOSTA -- Marty LeFiles recently accepted the position as assistant director and business consultant for Valdosta State University’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC).

LeFiles comes to his new position after a 34-year career with the Southern Georgia Regional Commission (SGRC), where he managed staff and organizational resources and provided technical assistance to local government officials and professional staff. He brings a combination of interpersonal skills and business knowledge. His experience includes several facets of consulting, from training local government clerks in financial and personnel management, to working with city and county managers, elected officials, chambers of commerce and citizens in developing and implementing local community projects and programs.

“After retiring from the SGRC, I started my own business in Valdosta, which is when I came in contact with the SBDC,” LeFiles said. “While working with the organization on my business, I learned about everything it has to offer.”

LeFiles said that when the job opening for assistant director and business consultant became available, he decided to take advantage of the opportunity.

“I have a background in finance and accounting, so I felt like I was well suited for this position. The SBDC is a well respected organization and I’m excited to be joining and working with people to help them develop their businesses, which will help our region expand and create jobs.”

LeFiles is an honor graduate of Valdosta State University, holding a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and a Masters of Business Administration in Finance. He is certified as an economic development finance professional from the National Development Council as well as a certified finance officer and local government management professional, both from the University of Georgia Carl Vinson Institute of Government. He also holds the Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) professional financial planning credential from the American College.

LeFiles is also active with the community, having served as president of the Azalea City Kiwanis Club, president of the VSU Alumni Association and currently as part of the Southern Georgia Area Agency on Aging Council. In addition, he helped organize and served as president of the Easter Seals Valdosta/Lowndes County Board of Directors, and is a current board member.