Alex Lawson is an experienced civic and financial strategist whose work bridges community development finance, economic justice, and public-private investment. As Chairman of the Board of Commissioners, he brings a values-driven approach rooted in equity, accountability, and community ownership. Over the past decade, Alex has helped structure and mobilize more than $2 billion in capital to support small businesses, affordable housing, and infrastructure in underinvested communities across the Deep South.

His expertise spans capital deployment, fundraising, and strategic partnerships—all of which inform his service on the JRA board. Since joining the commission in 2018, JRA has played a leading role in catalyzing over $800 million in infrastructure investments across Jackson and directly raised more than $30 million for agency-led economic development projects. Alex remains focused on mission-aligned investment, transparent governance, and long-term value creation that centers the needs of Jackson residents and neighborhoods. Alex holds two business degrees from Millsaps College and an investment certification from the Wharton School.