Larry Fillmer is the former Executive Director of the Auburn Research and Technology Foundation (ARTF) and the Auburn University Office of External Engagement and Support. He retired from Auburn University in April 2020 and formed his own consulting company, JLF Consultants, LLC. His consulting company focuses on assisting organizations in the preparation and development of major proposals and projects in response to market-driven economic development opportunities. During his tenure at ARTF and Auburn University, he was responsible for managing the development of the Auburn Research Park. Between 2016-2020, Fillmer directed new project initiatives, investments and construction of innovative facilities valued at over $120 million. He also served as principal liaison between Auburn University and organizations, both internal and external, on matters relating to coordination, promotion and financial support of the university’s strategic research initiatives. He represented Auburn University Research and provided the interface to various state, federal and commercial offices, particularly during the early phases of program definition and development. Mr. Fillmer directed the identification and support for collaboration opportunities from the broad range of public and private sector entities seeking economic and business relationships with various aspects of Auburn University Research. Mr. Fillmer joined Auburn University in March 2005, serving as a Major Gifts and Corporate Relations Development Officer. Before joining Auburn University, Fillmer held numerous senior executive positions with Amdahl and Fujitsu Corporations. He was responsible for the transformation of Amdahl from a fully integrated provider of mainframe computers and services to the establishment of Fujitsu Technology Solutions, Inc., an open systems technology company. He joined Amdahl Corporation in September 1985 as Director of Business and Strategic Planning for the Communications Systems Division. He held various executive management positions across the company’s divisions, including Senior Vice President and later President and CEO of the Antares Alliance Group, a software joint venture between Amdahl and EDS. In May 2000, he assumed additional duties as Amdahl’s Vice President for Services Operations, responsible for customer support and multi-vendor managed services, worldwide. He was named President and CEO of Amdahl IT Services and Fujitsu Technology Solutions in November 2001 and completed his career in January 2004. During the early years of his career, Fillmer worked for AT&T and South Central Bell, managing the development and implementation of operational support systems during the divestiture of the Regional Bell Operating Companies from AT&T. He also served seven years in the USAF, receiving a Regular Commission and attaining the rank of Captain. Fillmer graduated with High Honors from Auburn University, where he was named the 1969 Outstanding Graduate of the School of Business. In September 2008, he was selected as a “40 of 40” graduate recognized by the College of Business as one of 40 graduates over the past 40 years who exemplify the Auburn spirit and who reflect extraordinary credit upon their alma mater. He also holds a Master’s Degree in Industrial Management from the University of Alabama. Fillmer currently serves on the Board of Directors of the East Alabama Medical Center, the Administrative Board of the Auburn United Methodist Church (AUMC) and chairs the AUMC Finance Committee