WV Executive

Pledges to work toward expanding West Virginia’s economy to create and sustain jobs

Robert K. Welty, West Virginia state president of Fifth Third Bank, pledges to use his appointment by Gov. Joe Manchin to the board of the West Virginia Jobs Investment Trust (JIT) as an opportunity to work with other business leaders to create and sustain jobs throughout the state.

“West Virginia is not alone among the states trying to attract and retain business and thus create and retain jobs,” said Welty, “but working through the JIT, I firmly believe that we have an edge in seeking the kinds of jobs that will pay dividends to this great state now and in the future.”

The JIT is a public venture capital fund established to develop, promote and expand West Virginia’s economy by making investment funds available to eligible businesses.

“To create opportunity for our citizens, we have to attract sustainable investments that will help grow our economy. It is critical that our state has dedicated people in key roles that will produce results. Bob Welty brings a great deal of business savvy and knowledge to the JIT that will truly make a difference toward creating new investments,” said Gov. Manchin.

Welty brings more than 25 years experience in the banking and financial services industry to the JIT. As state president of Fifth Third Bank, Welty coordinates business development and decision-making activities for the bank’s Retail, Consumer Lending, Commercial and Investment Advisors divisions in West Virginia. Prior to serving as state president, Welty served as vice president of Trust and Private Banking and senior vice president of Investment Advisors for Fifth Third Bank.

The JIT is comprised of partners with extensive management, operations and technology experience. The Board invests in small companies that wish to expand and provides financing, strategic guidance, industry knowledge, team-building skills and an understanding of the unique challenges of start-up companies. The focus of the JIT is to turn new ideas into successful companies, and as a result, create and sustain jobs in the state.

Welty has contributed significantly to the growth and development of West Virginia. In addition the JIT, he currently serves on the Economic Development Committee of the Charleston Area Alliance and on the Allocation Committee of the Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation. He also has served on the Spirit of the Valley fundraising team for the Charleston YMCA, was a board member for Daymark and the Arthur B. Hodges Center, served as president of the Charleston Exchange Club and served as chairman of the University of Charleston’s business fund drive. Additionally, he was a member of the steering committee for the University of Charleston’s “Starry, Starry Night” fundraiser.

Welty was honored as Ohio Valley Affiliate Banker of the Year for Fifth Third Bank. He is a graduate of the University of Charleston.