EDC Sets Timetable For Hiring Executive Director

The new executive director of the Highlands County Industrial Development Authority/Economic Development Commission will need to have a bachelor's degree, some certifications and supervisory experience.

The individual will also need something else that can't be learned from a book - passion.

"If I had to say in one word what the committee is looking for the most is passion," said Wade Taveniere, chairman of the search committee that was formed after Louise England announced a few weeks ago she is planning to resign from the position at the end of this year.

"Louise showed passion about economic development," Taveniere said. "She was champing at the bit."

Advertisements about the position began running in local newspapers this past week. The committee is trying to advertise in other places that those in the economic development business will pay attention to that include the Internet and trade publications.

The salary range is $55,000 to $75,000.

England's salary is $68,250.

"Economic development is not real glamorous." Taveniere said. "There are a myriad of stresses. It takes somebody who is committed. You have to fight for your budget. You have to sell the county to people who have a lot of choices."

Although a formal deadline to accept resumes has not been set, the first screening will be held Sept. 19. Heartland Workforce is assisting the EDC with that part of the process.

Taveniere expects there will be 10 to 12 finalists. He added that three to five of them will likely be interviewed.

Interviews will be scheduled in early to mid-October. A decision is expected to be made by Nov.1.

Taveniere said the EDC wants to hire the new executive director by Dec. 1 and have the person work with England for about a month before she leaves the organization.

The search committee has met a couple of times and is scheduled to meet again Wednesday.

"It's our interest to get the best pool of candidates," Taveniere said. "This is a very critical issue for the county. The county that sits still stagnates."

Reporter Bill Rogers may be reached at 386-5825.