The Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission (EDC) has elected its 2009-2010 officers and Board of Directors.
Meg Crofton, president of Walt Disney World Resorts, takes the helm as Chair of the EDC Board of Directors. She follows John Hillenmeyer, president and CEO of Orlando Health, who will continue to serve on the EDC officer team as immediate past chairman. David Pace, president of New Broad Street Companies, steps in as vice chairman; and Alex Martins, COO of the Orlando Magic, was elected secretary-treasurer.
Crofton's foremost goal as chairman will be to advance the leadership initiative started this year, which is designed to position the EDC for continued success in an era of new economic realities. Through this initiative, five working groups have been established: mission & value proposition; governance; funding; business development; and succession planning. Together these groups will contribute to a multi-year plan and address long-term organizational priorities.
Several new additions to the EDC Board were also welcomed at this week's Board Meeting: Tim Baker, Baker Barrios Architects; Mark Glover, M&S Enterprises; Karl Nebel, North Highland; Jim Jardon, JHT; Cecelia Bonifay, Akerman Senterfitt; Nina Yon, Asian American Chamber; and Carlos Colombo, Hispanic Chamber.
In outlining plans for the coming year, Ray Gilley, EDC president & CEO, noted that, "With unemployment in Central Florida hovering in the ten-percent range, the EDC's mission of job creation and industry diversification is more important than ever before." Acknowledging a tight budget year, he outlined plans for a program of work that emphasizes balance and prioritizes return on investment.
