29 Sep THOMAS & HUTTON EXPANDS NORTH CAROLINA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT LEADERSHIP
Durham, NC, September 15, 2026 — Thomas & Hutton (T&H), a privately held, employee-owned professional services firm known for its award-winning culture and 80 years of shaping communities across the Southeast, is expanding its North Carolina economic development team with the addition of Connor Christensen as North Carolina Regional Director for Economic Development and expanded responsibilities for Timothy Downs as Regional Director & Corporate Counsel. Working together, Timothy and Connor will increase the firm’s capacity to support economic development partners and pursue opportunities across North Carolina
Timothy will continue serving as Regional Director and will remain actively engaged in client relationships, business development, and statewide economic development initiatives. Connor’s addition gives the team greater capacity to support existing partners and build new relationships with state, regional, and local economic development organizations.
Connor brings experience in economic development programs and statewide partnerships. Most recently, he served as Manager of Economic Development for the North Carolina Railroad Company, where he managed programs supporting industrial site development, business recruitment, and transportation solutions. His experience working with public agencies, private companies, and local economic development partners complements Timothy’s established network and knowledge of T&H’s professional services.
“Connor brings valuable experience in site development, infrastructure investment, and statewide partnerships,” said Timothy. “He and I will work side by side to support our existing clients, build new relationships, and pursue more opportunities across North Carolina. I look forward to continuing this work together as we expand our team.”
An attorney licensed to practice law in North Carolina, Timothy will also apply his legal experience and knowledge of the firm’s business as Corporate Counsel. His expanded responsibilities include contract review, negotiation support, and advising leadership on legal and risk management matters, alongside his continuing economic development role.
