Brad Dean

Brad Dean graduated with highest honors from the University of Illinois, earning a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy. After earning his degree, Brad Dean secured a place in General Electric’s Financial Management Program, which he completed with honors. General Electric subsequently placed him at a multi-plant manufacturing site in Puerto Rico. During his tenure as a Financial Analyst, he effected consistent productivity increases and augmented average inventory turns twofold in two years. In 1993, Brad Dean became a Financial Analyst and Controller at Hard Rock Café in Miami, Florida.

After only two years, the company promoted him to General Manager of a restaurant and retailer in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. In this position, he oversaw a 200-person staff and ensured profitable operations. At the age of 25, Brad Dean became one of the youngest general managers in Hard Rock Café history. After three years as General Manager, Brad Dean accepted a position as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, a position that he continues to hold today. Through this organization, he helps fortify the sense of community among local businesses and promotes all industries, including tourism; the Chamber serves 2,700 members and 45,000 employees.

Over the past decade, the Myrtle Beach economy has grown by an average of seven percent each year. Outside of work, Brad Dean remains committed to his local community, offering regular support to a number of charities, including the Horry County United Way, Friends of Brookgreen, the American Heart Association, and March of Dimes Foundation. Recreationally, he enjoys reading books about history and keeping abreast of major developments in the business world.