Date: Fri, 18 Dec 2015 18:56:34 +0000
From: Alyssa Byrd
Subject: Chatham EDC names new president
Chatham Economic Development Corporation (EDC) chair Chris Ehrenfeld announced Wednesday that Kyle Touchstone will lead the organization as its next president. Touchstone will begin February 1, 2016 and will succeed Dianne Reid, who is retiring at the end of February, as the lead economic developer for Chatham County, North Carolina.
“Kyle’s extensive economic development experience makes him an excellent match for Chatham County,” Ehrenfeld said. “The county is poised for tremendous growth, and we are confident Kyle will be able to build on the momentum.”
A committee selected by the non-profit’s board of directors began the search process in August. Search committee members included board secretary Twig Wood, vice chair Rachel Burton, former chair Joe Glasson, Chatham County Manager Renee Paschal, and Pittsboro Commissioner Michael Fiocco.
“After an exhaustive search process, it was clear Kyle was the most outstanding candidate,” said Wood, who served with Glasson as co-chair of the committee. “His enthusiasm and work ethic will guide Chatham County as it enters a period of huge economic growth.”
Glasson echoed Wood’s assessment. “Kyle quickly distinguished himself. He made us want to offer him the job right then and there.”
“I am honored to be selected for the position and to continue to build upon the work of Dianne, the Chatham EDC team, and Chatham EDC board of directors,” Touchstone said.
“Chatham County’s continued population growth, having two megasites and Chatham Park, and its proximity to international R&D assets of the Research Triangle elevates us when attracting new and growing existing business,” he continued. “I look forward to being a part of Chatham County and its continued success.”
Touchstone’s economic development career includes two years as the executive director for Pontotoc County Chamber of Commerce and five years as the economic development project manager for the Knoxville Chamber. Most recently he was the executive vice president for the Economic Development Council of Tallahassee/Leon County.
Touchstone holds a BA in Political Science and Communication from Mississippi State University and has completed the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute certificate program.
Alyssa Byrd
Communication & Outreach Specialist
Chatham Economic Development Corporation
P.O. Box 1627 | 964 East St.
Pittsboro, NC 27312
919-542-8278
www.chathamedc.org
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