IRMO, S.C. — From helping launch South Carolina technology startups to leading international business initiatives around the world, William Lee MacIlwinen Jr. has built a career transforming innovative ideas into successful ventures. He recently shared those experiences as the featured speaker at a meeting of the Rotary Club of Lake Murray-Irmo.
MacIlwinen recently retired after nearly 10 years with the South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA), where he served as Chief Program Officer. In that role, he directed programs supporting technology startups across South Carolina, including SC Launch and its affiliated investment fund, while overseeing academic and industry partnerships that promote innovation and economic development across the state.
Before joining SCRA, MacIlwinen spent more than two decades in executive leadership and sales management with multinational software companies and Silicon Valley startups, including Wily, Apteligent, CA Technologies and IBM. His career included assignments in New York City and Tokyo, giving him firsthand experience in the global technology marketplace.
He also served as director of the University of South Carolina’s graduate international business program, now known as the International Master of Business Administration (IMBA).
A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, MacIlwinen earned a Master of International Business from the University of South Carolina. He has lived in four countries and traveled to more than 30 countries across five continents, bringing a global perspective to entrepreneurship, leadership and economic growth.
“Lee’s presentation demonstrated how innovation, education and entrepreneurship work together to strengthen South Carolina’s economy,” said Ken Gasque, Public Image Chair for the Rotary Club of Lake Murray-Irmo. “Our members appreciated hearing from someone who has helped so many entrepreneurs transform ideas into successful businesses.”
Rotary clubs regularly invite community leaders, educators and business professionals to share their expertise with members. These programs reflect Rotary’s commitment to lifelong learning, ethical leadership and service to the community.
The Rotary Club of Lake Murray-Irmo meets at 7:30 a.m. on the first three Wednesdays of each month at the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission. Visitors interested in fellowship, networking and community service are welcome to attend.
For more information about the Rotary Club of Lake Murray-Irmo and its community service projects, contact Ken Gasque at 803-553-0010 or [email protected].
