College appoints innovation, business development officer

SARASOTA — University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee has appointed Greg Smogard the college's innovation and business development officer. 

According to a press release, Smogard has worked with Fortune 500 companies and global brands in more than 40 countries. He's held several management positions in American Express’ Latin American division and with Blockbuster/Viacom. He has co-founded, mentored and invested in several startups.

“We are deeply committed to supporting opportunities for our students and meeting the needs of the businesses in our region," says USF Sarasota-Manatee Regional Chancellor Karen Holbrook in a statement. "Greg has the business expertise and entrepreneurial spirit to utilize USFSM’s resources in an innovative way to help businesses meet the challenges they face.”

Smogard is also the author of the book “A World of Opportunities for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Creating Your Own Job in the New Normal.”

“We have an amazing opportunity to develop innovative business partnerships and enhance our existing relationships," says Smogard in a statement. "The Sarasota-Manatee area is an incredible and dynamic community and I am excited to be able to work with the University to make a positive impact in the region we serve.”

USF Sarasota-Manatee is a regional campus of the University of South Florida system with classes in Manatee and Sarasota counties, Venice and online.