The Fred Taylor Company (FTC), one of Georgia’s largest privately held transportation and warehousing firms, is proud to announce that former US Department of Labor economist Edward Culin Brown has joined the company as Director of Corporate Development and Strategic Partnerships. Brown, a grandson of company founder Fred Taylor, represents the third generation of family leadership at FTC.

In his new role, Brown will focus on strengthening customer relationships, exploring strategic growth opportunities and developing partnerships that continue to drive the company’s impact across Southwest Georgia and beyond.

Brown holds a bachelor’s degree in finance and accounting from the University of Alabama. He also holds a master’s in economics from Southern Methodist University, a master’s in public policy from Brown University, and both a master’s and doctorate in economic history from the University of Cambridge. 

Brown’s research has focused on monetary policy, economic growth and the financial challenges of higher education. He brings a unique academic perspective to FTC, grounded in both global economic understanding and a personal commitment to local economic development.

“My grandfather had no formal training in economics,” Brown said, “but he understood a critical tenet of the profession: the business owner is not and will never be a job creator. It is the customer who is ultimately responsible for job creation and economic growth. We take this to heart at FTC. The more we can do to service our customers, the greater the impact FTC can have on Southwest Georgia.”

Mark Taylor, President of FTC, expressed enthusiasm about this next chapter in the family legacy. “Edward brings fresh insights and a deep respect for the values that have shaped our company for over 65 years,” he said. “His expertise and dedication to our customers will strengthen our ability to serve the region well into the future.”

Marsha Taylor, Executive Vice President, added, “Our family has always built this company on integrity, hard work and friendships. Edward’s energy and perspective will be an incredible asset as we look toward our next phase of growth.”

Founded in 1959, FTC has grown into one of Georgia’s largest privately held transportation and warehousing firms, with over 20 company-owned facilities across Georgia and Alabama. Its largest division, Interstate NationaLease, provides full-service truck and trailer leasing, maintenance and repair services from 15 locations.

FTC also owns and manages over a million square feet of commercial warehouse space in Albany, Thomasville, and Huntsville, Alabama, through its Interstate Warehouse Services division. Through JFT Properties, the company maintains a diverse real estate portfolio comprising commercial and residential properties across Georgia, Alabama and Louisiana.