Why Williamson County, TN, Is a Great Place to Do Business

©Journal Communications/Jeff Adkins

When it came time for two successful business executives to plant roots for both their businesses and their families, the decision was clear. Williamson County stood out as a place where economic opportunity and quality of life converge.

For Ahsan Irshad, president of AlphaGraphics in Brentwood, his journey took him from a global career to a local venture, while Kurt Kane, president and CEO of TruGreen, sought the ideal location for some of his executive team. Despite their different paths, both found a home in Williamson County, where professional growth and personal fulfillment awaited them.

Finding Home

Irshad grew up in Pakistan and built a career with British American Tobacco, which took him to Asia, Europe and beyond. He met his wife and business partner, Diana, and started a family. By 2022, with three young children, they were ready to establish roots.

After a move to Houston, the couple began exploring opportunities for both a family home and a business they could develop. This led them to Brentwood and AlphaGraphics, a custom print and marketing company.

“I flew out, met with business owners, connected with people in the community, and the decision was easy,” Irshad says.

Irshad and Diana were looking for a business with existing revenue that would allow Irshad to leverage his marketing experience. They acquired AlphaGraphics Brentwood in November 2023.

Strategic Relocation

For Memphis-based TruGreen, which has widespread office and support center locations, the desire to build more critical mass led to the opening of a 37,000-square-foot space in Cool Springs in early 2025. Officials originally chose the Nashville area for its growth, talent pool, central location and business-friendly environment, Kane says. Williamson County then became the clear choice.

“The county offers the perfect blend of proximity to Nashville with its vibrancy and growth of its own,” Kane says. “We were drawn to the area’s accessibility, allowing our team members to live in any way that fits their lifestyle while staying connected through our Franklin office.”

The move has also been ideal for Kane and his wife, who recently became empty nesters.

“From music to terrific restaurants to entertainment options, it’s tough to beat,” Kane says. “But most importantly, the people we’ve met have been terrific.”

Joshua Haines

Community Connection and Talent Retention

Both executives highlight the blend of professional opportunity and personal fulfillment as things they love about living and working in Williamson County.

“Our kids love their schools and have made great friends,” Irshad says. “We’ve enjoyed the outdoors – so many parks and places to explore.”

Community engagement has been key to the success of both leaders as well. Irshad credits the welcoming spirit of organizations such as Williamson, Inc., which serves as the county’s chamber of commerce and economic development office, and the Brentwood Rotary Club for helping him integrate seamlessly into the local business scene. Diana is also deeply involved in the community, having joined Leadership Brentwood, a leadership program sponsored by Williamson, Inc.’s non-profit arm.

Kane finds value in the CEO Roundtable, a peer group for executives to connect and grow, which Williamson, Inc. sponsors, and he spoke at the Tennessee Chamber’s Public Affairs Conference in Franklin.

“It was a great opportunity to connect with leaders from various industries,” Kane says.

©Journal Communications/Jeff Adkins

Driving Growth and Long-Term Momentum

Today, Irshad and Kane are growing their businesses alongside their community. Irshad says AlphaGraphics has grown its revenue by about 50% over the past 18 months.

“When you’re growing a business, you want to be in a growing economy – that’s what Williamson County offers,” he says. “Being located in the heart of Brentwood has positioned us to serve a wide client base. It’s an ideal place to grow, and it’s an amazing place to raise a family, and that alone seals the deal.”

Kane sees Williamson County as the ideal base for TruGreen’s mission to “plant a flag in every lawn.”

“It’s a vibrant area that gives companies top-tier talent, infrastructure and a supportive business community,” he says.

“It’s a place where employees thrive through excellent schools, strong community activities or flexibility to live the lifestyle they want. There’s real momentum here. My advice is not to wait too long. Get in while you can and be part of shaping this community’s future.”