The Business Development Board of Martin County is pleased to announce that Troy McDonald has been hired as its Director of Existing Industry and business Development.
The role’s primary responsibilities include consistent engagement with existing businesses, especially those industries that attract outside capital into the local economy, and presenting and promoting the county’s attributes to targeted employers and investors seeking expansion opportunities.
“We’re really excited to add Troy to the team,” says William Corbin, BDB executive director who defined the position and led the interviewing and hiring process. “Amid an excellent field of prospects, he distinguished himself with his deep network of local relationships, extensive knowledge of local governance and the regulatory processes, and experience owning and operating a small business. This unique combination of skills and insights informs his perspective, and we believe many of the business owners we work with will find it relatable and highly beneficial.”
A resident of Martin County since 1995, McDonald is a licensed Realtor who owned a process-serving business for 22 years before selling it in 2020. Prior to this, he worked as the general manager of a fixed-based operator at Witham Field, directing all operations.
McDonald was elected to the Stuart City Commission four times and served for a total of 11 years, including four stints as mayor. His time in office encompassed leadership roles in multiple local and regional agencies, including serving as chair of the Metropolitan Planning Organization, the Stuart Community Redevelopment Agency, and even the BDB during its pivotal reorganization in 2018.
The Stuart/Martin County Chamber of Commerce awarded him Business Advocate of the Year in 2018 and 2024.
Active in the community, McDonald has volunteered with Operation 300, Southeast Florida Honor Flight, the American Cancer Society, and Healthy Start Coalition.
“It’s wonderful to get the opportunity to again be a part of the vital efforts of the Business Development Board—and to do so as a team member of this remarkable professional staff,” says McDonald. “As a staunch advocate for small businesses, I’ve long been amazed by the abundance of local companies whose innovations and products solve serious challenges, address vital issues like national security, and enhance the daily lives of consumers around the world. It’ll be an honor to help them efficiently address their needs and reach their goals.”
A certified economic developer who assisted communities in the Atlanta metro area with attracting nearly half a billion dollars in investment and creating high-wage jobs, Corbin prioritizes consistent outreach and coordination with core industries such as aviation, marine, and light manufacturing to avail the agency’s services.
“Proactive engagement with the business community—particularly companies whose products inject outside capital into our economy—is one of the most effective ways we can strengthen Martin County’s economy,” says Corbin. “Troy is well positioned to help us make significant strides on this front.”
