Teasdel named deputy secretary of S.C. Department of Commerce

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Ashely Teasdel, director of the S.C. Department of Commerce’s business services division, has been promoted to deputy secretary of the organization.  

In her six-plus years with the commerce department, Teasdel has led the team responsible for small business development, existing industry support, supplier outreach, emergency management and recycling market development. She also managed the agency’s COVID-19 response efforts, assisting more than 9,000 businesses during the pandemic, according to a news release from the department. 

Under Teasdel’s leadership, the business services division expanded its cybersecurity compliance assistance and launched a small business data intelligence tool that provides companies customer and supplier information. She also led the development of programs including the Local First Good Enterprise Initiative, a 12-week, hands-on training course in business planning and management for startups and existing businesses.  

“Ashely’s dedication to S.C. Commerce, our team and the industries we serve is beyond measure,” S.C. Secretary of Commerce Harry Lightsey said in the release. “She approaches every situation from a business perspective, with a distinctly inclusive and creative lens, to ensure the process, people and final product are first-class. I am excited for our collaborative work to keep pushing the South Carolina economy and business climate to the forefront of success.” 

Before joining the commerce department in 2015, Teasdel spent almost a decade working in the banking industry, focusing on small business support and development within South Carolina. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from Charleston Southern University and a master’s degree in business administration from Southern Wesleyan University.  

“I am honored to have this opportunity to serve South Carolina,” Teasdel said. “Working with Secretary Lightsey, the Commerce team and our allies, we are committed to ensuring our state remains ahead of the curve and elevates opportunities for all businesses and citizens.”