Kilgore EDC Press Release |
The Kilgore Economic Development Corporation’s leadership has initiated a nationwide search for its next Executive Director. The move follows the recent retirement of Lisa Denton, who served as KEDC’s leader since 2021.
“Lisa’s leadership has played a key role in advancing Kilgore’s economic development efforts,” according to Alan Pollard, KEDC Board President and Vice President of SATCOM Antenna Products at CPI. “During her tenure, KEDC strengthened its partnerships, expanded its regional and statewide presence, and delivered meaningful results through business attraction, workforce collaboration, and infrastructure investment.”
KEDC has a strong track record of performance, including significant capital investment, job creation, and long-term growth in industrial property values. The organization operates with a focused team responsible for business development, real estate and site development, marketing, and project coordination. KEDC is widely recognized for its results-driven approach and has received international recognition for excellence in economic development.
The executive search process has been broken into three different phases. The first phase, which is already completed, was to gather feedback from community stakeholders regarding the key skill sets desired of the next Executive Director. The second phase, now in progress, consists of casting the net for qualified professionals who may have an interest in the top leadership role. A formal position announcement has been posted with the Texas Economic Development Council, Southern Economic Development Council, International Economic Development Council, LinkedIn, and other professional websites.
The final phase will include a detailed vetting process that includes in-person interviews and written communications. The goal is to announce a final candidate for the position in the next few months.
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of KEDC and is responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction, and day-to-day management of the organization. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the professional directs all economic development initiatives, including business recruitment, retention and expansion, real estate development, and stakeholder engagement.
This role requires a highly relational and strategic leader who can balance long-term vision with operational execution. The Executive Director will represent KEDC to business leaders, site selectors, government officials, and community stakeholders while ensuring alignment with the organization’s strategic plan and program of work.
Key responsibilities for the Executive Director include strategic leadership, organizational management, business development, economic development project management, real estate and site development, stakeholder engagement, external relations, and workforce and community collaboration.
KEDC has partnered with The Chason Group, an executive search firm specializing in economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, destination marketing organizations, and foundations, to coordinate the process.
Candidates interested in applying for the position are required to upload a cover letter and resume at www.thechasongroup.com
