A resident of Birmingham, Alabama with a background in economic and policy development, J. William "Billy" McFarland, Jr. holds executive roles with the investment vehicles SmithMack, LLC, and Buffex, LLC, and directs economic development and complex public policy initiatives as managing member of The Austin Group, LLC. J. William McFarland, Jr. previously served as special assistant to the president for business development at Judson College, where he played an integral role in doubling the annual appropriation of the Alabama Student Grant Program. He also led similar efforts at the University of West Alabama from 2011 to 2014.

Billy McFarland, Jr. previously served as a community development planner with the West Alabama Regional Commission, where he managed all aspects of the $5 million Revolving Loan Fund to spur business growth in the region. Among other positions, he also worked as a grant writer with the Tuscaloosa Children's Center and resident manager of Skyland Apartments.

Through his career, Mr. McFarland has held a variety of leadership roles with political- and community-based organizations. He is chairman of the Perry County Republican Party and an associate member of the University of Alabama College of Arts & Sciences Leadership Board and, in the past, held positions with Easter Seals West Alabama, Eutaw Airport Authority, and the Southern Rail Commission.