Hank Harris
Director
In 1986, Hank Harris embarked on a 35-year long career at FMI Corporation, a leading management consulting and investment banking firm in the engineering and construction industry.
Rising from CEO to executive chairman during his tenure, he now serves in an advisory capacity and continues to consult for firms in matters of organization, strategic planning, and the execution of strategic plans through mergers and acquisitions. In addition, he has been a key member of the Ward and Smith Business Consulting team since 2019, bringing his expertise to support closely held businesses in North Carolina.
In 2024, Hank joined the Board of Directors at TUFF, further expanding his commitment to advancing the strategic mission of organizations. His extensive background in regional building, real estate, and development equips Hank with a unique perspective to advance TUFF’s mission of working with universities and research institutions to develop and acquire state-of-the art buildings and vibrant communities where innovation and commerce can thrive. He has experienced the inner workings of hundreds of successful businesses, understands the mind of an entrepreneur, and has a deep understanding of the issues unique to privately held businesses.
Hank holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Richmond and an MBA from Virginia Commonwealth University. He is a certified management consultant and a past member of the American Arbitration Association and Association of Management Consulting firms. His accomplished career also includes publishing an extensive array of articles, white papers, and three books on the topics of business and management.
In addition to his Director responsibilities at TUFF, Hank also serves on the Boards of Directors and advisory boards for several other major companies. Hank and his wife reside in Wilmington NC where they enjoy the beach and water lifestyle. Hank has three grown sons, all UNC Chapel Hill graduates, and everyone cheers on the Tarheels.