PORT TOWNSEND — Jefferson County’s economic development council has hired David Ballif as its next executive director.
Ballif will succeed Cindy Brooks at EDC Team Jefferson beginning June 3. Not yet moved to Jefferson County, Ballif will settle in the area and begin working out of the EDC office on June 23, according to an EDC press release.
“I am particularly drawn to EDC Team Jefferson’s emphasis on high-leverage, place-based initiatives that improve economic well-being,” Ballif said in the release. “Your commitment to workforce development, community-driven strategies, and broadly-shared economic development resonates strongly with my professional values.”
Ballif comes to the organization with more than 10 years of international and regional economic development experience. Most recently, he served as a U.S. diplomat with United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in El Salvador, according to the release.
In his work with USAID, he led initiatives across six Central American countries, focused on improving the investing climate, growing small businesses, expanding workforce training and streamlining trade systems, the release said.
“David’s global perspective and proven experience in leading large-scale economic initiatives will bring fresh energy to the region,” said Mark Knudsen, EDC board president. “We are thrilled to welcome him to Jefferson County and look forward to introducing him to our business and civic community.”
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Reporter Elijah Sussman can be reached by email at elijah.sussman@sequim gazette.com.
