CEO Michael Praeger explained the hiring decision this way: “Having a large footprint in Charlotte, it is imperative that we are cognizant of how our business affects the city, economically, socially and environmentally.” Phocas held his position with Charlotte from October 2006 until he took the new job. In that role, he will lead community engagement efforts in the five locations in which AvidXchange has offices in the United States and will also oversee the strategic direction of the AvidXchange Foundation.