Mr. Straughter is an esteemed figure in international business development with a distinguished career spanning over four decades. As the Chairman of the African and Caribbean Business Council of Greater Philadelphia, Mr. Straughter has been instrumental in fostering economic ties between the United States and African and Caribbean nations. His profound impact on international relations is further highlighted by his role as the former Honorary Consul for the Republic of Guinea in the United States.
Mr. Straughter’s expertise extends across a diverse array of sectors and regions. His extensive experience includes working in Africa, Central Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America, and Russia. In these regions, he has provided invaluable guidance to foreign governments on governance, transparency, trade policy, foreign direct investment, and economic development. His collaborations with Finance Ministers and other high-ranking officials have underscored his capability to influence policy and economic strategies effectively.
Notably, Mr. Straughter has been a significant contributor to various bilateral and multilateral financial development entities such as The World Bank, USAID, African Development Foundation, and the African Development Bank. His work with these organizations has involved countries like Cameroon, Egypt, India, CĂ´te d’Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Haiti, Jamaica, and many more. This broad geographical involvement underscores his versatile understanding of global economic dynamics and his ability to navigate complex international landscapes.
A champion for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Mr. Straughter has advised numerous public and private sector entities on international trade, market analysis, and market penetration strategies. He has organized investment promotion seminars in the United States and led successful trade missions to countries such as Cameroon, CĂ´te d’Ivoire, Guinea, Senegal, South Africa, and Brazil, promoting economic growth and collaboration.
In addition to his international pursuits, Mr. Straughter has made significant contributions to local and national initiatives in the United States. He was instrumental in designing and implementing the Minority Export Development Technical Assistance Program (MEDTAP) in Pennsylvania, which provided critical support to over 300 minority firms. His leadership roles have included serving as the Managing Director of the Minority Business Development Center in Washington, DC, and as the Executive Director of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators.
Mr. Straughter’s advocacy for cooperative economics is well-documented. He served as Acting Director of the Office of Self-Help Development at the National Consumer Cooperative Bank, managing a $75 million development fund. His efforts in Philadelphia, including the establishment of the Strawberry Mansion Cooperative Society and the Philadelphia OIC Cooperative Economic Development Program, have provided fresh food access and economic opportunities to underserved communities.
A lifelong learner, Mr. Straughter has pursued advanced studies in cooperative economics at the Union Graduate School and holds a B.A. in International Management/Business Administration from Antioch University. His multilingual capabilities, including proficiency in French, enhance his effectiveness in international arenas.
Mr. Straughter’s professional affiliations are extensive, including roles as a board member and chairman in numerous organizations focused on African and Caribbean development, trade, and cultural understanding. His leadership and vision continue to inspire and drive positive change in international business and community development.