Wilmington, Delaware, United States
I am a business-oriented strategic planner, problem solver and professional manager. I have extensive background in real estate, business development, and transactions involving governmental entities, corporations, and private investors. Through my economic development work I became comfortable bringing diverse groups together to solve high-stakes issues. I was responsible for two publicly-owned, audited, corporate entities which developed my financial reporting and board management skills. I am accustomed to data, and analytical by nature, but able to clearly convey technical matters to a variety of audiences. I enjoy solving business problems, managing teams, and negotiating win-win solutions around credible action plans.
Responsible for city business and land development, job creation, and new revenue generation; report to Mayor and COO. Manage staff of six professionals and two administrators overseeing daily office operations, profitability of all city economic development programs including two development corporations, strategic and capital projects funds, and two revolving loan funds. Authored the City economic development plan and responsible for leading all city departments toward implementing a business-responsive mindset conducive to private investment. Represent the Mayor to the business community, promote the City through public speaking engagements and community outreach, provide counsel to Mayor for difficult decisions and liaison with Governor's Cabinet Secretaries and Delaware's three federal elected officials.
Supervised two professionals and served as chief project and transaction manager coordinating municipal, state, and federal resources. Represented city’s economic development projects before the mayor, the city council, and the community. Led liaison activities with corporate and business communities, coordinating and resolving issues arising between the private sector and city government.
Appointed to oversee a new city-wide Brownfield redevelopment program seeking to attract private capital to former industrial properties. "Wilmington Brownfield Opportunities," supported private investors through financial analysis, incentives, regulatory guidance, and government affairs.
Startup opportunity with an outdoor clothing company seeking to place brand in specialty retailers between New York and Washington DC. Developed marketing and sales strategy, signed 13 stores, established a $1.5 million mid-Atlantic territory.