The World Affairs Council of Jacksonville met on Tuesday, with Jerry Mallot (of JAX Chamber and JAXUSA Partnership fame) moderating a panel of business leaders and a great conversation. I stopped by the River Club (always nice) to hear their thoughts (and experiences) of what it took to attract their non-US companies to our great city, Jacksonville.

The panel consisted of:

• Tracey Hulsey, from City Facilities Management, of the UK
• Jody Beasley from Saft, of France
• Anthony Glenn from Macquarie, of Australia

There were many common reasons their companies made the choice to invest in Jacksonville. They all mentioned financial (mostly tax) incentives, the available pool of skilled workers, and the great quality of life. One person pointed to a helicopter ride over the city as not only a really cool way to see the city, but as a prime example of the city’s dedication and desire to have the company choose Jax… something tells me it wasn’t the mosquito control helicopter.

I’m new to the World Affairs Council, but the two events I’ve been to so far have been really interesting. If this kind of topic sounds interesting to you, you should check out their website.

You can also read more over at the Jacksonville Daily Record

Thanks as always, for reading.