What are the day-to-day responsibilities of an Economic Development Manager?
My day-to-day responsibilities include collaborating with local, regional, and state partners to accomplish economic development initiatives for the City of Tucker which include business recruitment, retention and expansion, and marketing. My daily activities also include acting as a liaison and programming developer/implementer for the Tucker Downtown Development Authority, Tucker Urban Redevelopment Agency, as well as Tucker’s local Community Improvement Districts.
Tell us about your professional background…
I began my career in retail management and commercial sales with the Sherwin-Williams Paint Company. Selling to manufacturing plants, hotels, and the hospitality industry taught me a lot about the needs and demands of those sectors from an inside perspective. I applied this knowledge to my first economic development position as the Business Development Specialist for Athens-Clarke County’s Economic Development Department. I expanded my economic development knowledge and experience working in the Metro Seattle market as the Vice President of Business Development for an economic development non-profit, the Economic Development Board for Tacoma-Pierce County in Tacoma, Washington. In coming home to Georgia, I knew I wanted to stay in the economic development field. I love coming to work knowing that my efforts help to make my community better and stronger.
What is your vision for Economic Development in Tucker?
My vision for Tucker would be to create an Economic Development Strategic Plan that would create a pathway for Tucker to grow and support its current businesses while attracting new likeminded businesses, redevelopment, and talent with a community focus.
What do you like best about the job so far?
I have loved falling in love with Tucker! Every day I have had the opportunity to learn something about Tucker’s history or meet a member of the business community. Residents and businesses I have met have shown such wonderful interest and care about the future of Tucker. Their passion and commitment to this community is what makes me grateful and excited to be a part of Tucker’s future.
OFF THE WALL
If you’re not in the office, where would we most likely find you?
If I’m not in the office, you’ll most likely find me at home working on a renovation project with my dogs, in my “workshop” (I enjoy refinishing furniture as a hobby), or on the golf course.
What is your favorite type of music?
I enjoy modern folk music, and 2000s alternative/indie rock. Favorite bands include Bon Iver, Iron & Wine, MGMT, and Florence + the Machine. I would be lying if I didn’t also add that I am a huge pop fan and love Britney Spears and Lady Gaga.
Have any New Year’s resolutions?
This year I am putting out a rather large challenge for myself as I hope to begin learning Spanish.
What’s the last book you read?
Admittedly I am more of a podcast listener and audio book person, but lately I have been re-reading some of the classics and am currently in the middle of Moby Dick.
