A business leader who lives and works in Charlotte, North Carolina, Thomas Clarkson holds a master of arts in general studies with a concentration in business and commerce from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. He began his career in the advertising industry before embarking on a series of entrepreneurial enterprises. In particular, Thomas Clarkson found success in the New York City luxury jewelry and accessories sectors, serving tenures as director of Circa and executive vice president of Alliance Time. Since parting ways with Alliance Time in 2012, he has served as managing director of Charlotte’s Garrity Enterprises. His work with Garrity centers on partnering with various fashion and luxury brands to negotiate redistribution deals for discontinued and overstocked products. When he isn’t working, Mr. Clarkson is a boating enthusiast and a sports fan who particularly enjoys golf, tennis, and baseball. He also supports the Puzzle Piece Foundation and other charities that benefit children.