TEAM / Brandon Dermody
Brandon Dermody is the Managing Partner of The Southern Group’s South Carolina office, where he has led since 2005 with a broad portfolio spanning agriculture, appropriations, economic development, gaming, transportation, public-private partnerships, strategic planning and more. Widely regarded as one of the state’s most effective government affairs professionals, Brandon has also emerged as a leading authority on pari-mutuel and Class III gaming in South Carolina. His deep expertise in gaming regulations, wagering systems, and market innovation has positioned him at the forefront of shaping the state’s evolving gaming landscape.
In addition to his public policy work, Brandon is an equity partner in Del Rio Racing, a premier racing enterprise based in Nashville, Tennessee. Through this role, he has helped expand the company’s influence in horse racing and gaming while driving strategic growth and operational excellence. His reputation as a thought leader and innovator in the gaming space continues to grow as he contributes to both regional and national policy conversations.
Brandon has also ventured into the esports industry, recognizing its expanding role in modern competitive entertainment. He is the owner of Ryvals.com, a Dallas-based esports platform focused on delivering engaging and competitive gaming experiences. Under his leadership, Ryvals.com has become a rising force in the industry, connecting players, sponsors, and digital audiences in new and exciting ways.
Earlier in his career, Brandon served as Special Assistant to U.S. Senator Rick Santorum. He later held senior government affairs positions with AmeriHealth Mercy Health Plan and Select Health of South Carolina. Before joining The Southern Group, Brandon founded and led The Harrell Group.
During his time at Southern, Brandon led efforts to secure a $9 million loan to save the U.S.S. Laffey, the most decorated destroyer in U.S. Navy history.
Brandon’s civic leadership includes service on the boards of the Coastal Carolina Fair, South Carolina Junior Tennis Foundation, and the Lowcountry March of Dimes advisory council. He has been a guest lecturer at the University of Pennsylvania’s Fels School of Government and LaSalle University, and was selected to attend the National Security Forum at the U.S. Air Force War College. He also served as Honorary Commander of the USAF’s 14th Airlift Squadron and was appointed to the Charleston Air Force Base Commander’s Advisory Board.
He holds a B.A. in Political Science and a minor in Russian Linguistics from Florida State University, and studied abroad at St. Petersburg University in Russia. He also earned his PAHM certification from the Academy for Health Care Management. Brandon lives in Charleston, South Carolina, with his wife, Kay, and their two children.
