Pavan D. Patel was elected as the District 2 representative to the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners in 2024. He will serve a four-year term, which will end in 2028.
As a first-generation American and local business owner, Patel brings a unique perspective to the Board. He blends his professional achievements with his long history of community leadership. Patel was born in New York City and has been a proud resident of Fayetteville for nearly thirty years. He graduated from Terry Sanford High School, earned a BA in Economics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and received an MBA from Babson College’s F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business.
Patel is the founder of Willow Group Investments, where he leads successful ventures in commercial real estate, hospitality, and healthcare. His business and financial expertise is complemented by his dedication to fostering economic growth and sustainable development in Cumberland County.
Patel’s commitment to community service is evident throughout his leadership roles in a variety of organizations, including:
• Chair, Fayetteville Zoning Commission
• Vice Chair, Cumberland County Tourism Development Authority
• Treasurer & Trustee, Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County
• President, Southeastern NC Asian Indian Association
• Founder’s Council, Methodist University
• Millennial Advisory (NEXT), City of Fayetteville
In his current role on the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners, Patel serves as the Chair of the Finance Committee and is an active member of the Audit, Infrastructure, and Fayetteville/Cumberland Liaison Committees. He also serves as a liaison to the Civic Center Commission, Distinctly Fayetteville, the Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission, and the Joint Planning Board.
Patel, a proud Eagle Scout and member of The Fayetteville Observer’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2021, has been repeatedly recognized for his leadership, dedication, and service to the community. He is also considered a pioneer in the North Carolina Indian-American community and is the first individual of Indian-American descent to be elected to a local office in Cumberland County.
His leadership is inspired by a deep connection to the community, where he actively supports initiatives that empower small businesses, promote cultural enrichment, and enhance opportunities for the next generation.
Patel resides in Fayetteville with his wife, Dr. Amruta Bahekar, and their dog, Copper. They all enjoy contributing to the vibrant and diverse community they call home.