"Companies shouldn't wait until they need an approval, a vote, or help solving a problem to begin building relationships. The best external affairs work happens long before that."
Paul McCown navigates the intersection of business, government, and community. Having served as a CEO, COO, and City Councilmember, he brings a unique "both sides of the table" perspective to external affairs.
Track Record & Experience
Private Sector Growth
Served as Chief Operating Officer & Head of Global Business Development at Dataspeed (Detroit, MI), scaling the autonomous technology company from $400,000 to $16 million in annual revenue. Led global automotive and tech partnerships, finance, marketing strategy, and operations. Also led corporate development & M&A at International Bancard.
Public Governance
Served as an elected City Council Member in Troy, Michigan, one of Michigan's largest cities. Governed municipal land use, economic incentives, development approvals, infrastructure, and balanced community interests across residents, businesses, developers, and local government.
Public Affairs
Managed political and public-policy efforts across multiple states, led campaigns and coalitions, collaborated with elected officials and government agencies, built relationships with business and civic organizations, and guided companies through turnaround and rapid growth.
Thought Leadership
Active in regional business leadership, including the Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce in Southern California. Writes and speaks on technology infrastructure, energy development, and community risk management (including analyzing local opposition and community backlash around data center and energy project sitings).
Education & Credentials
- Master of Public Policy (MPP) — Specialization in Economics
Pepperdine University - Bachelor of Arts (BA) — Liberal Arts
Thomas Aquinas College
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