THUNDER BAY – The Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission has its new chief executive officer.
The organization’s board of directors on Wednesday announced Jamie Taylor has been hired to fill the role, following the announcement of current CEO Eric Zakrewski’s decision to retire.
Taylor brings 20 years of economic development experience to the post, most recently serving as the senior manager of regional services and relationships for the ministry of transportation.
Prior to that Taylor was the Thunder Bay area manager, for Northern Development and Mines, and manager of program delivery for FedNor.
She’s also served as a program officer for Indigenous Affairs and Northern Development Canada.
Taylor said she was honoured to land the role and looks forward to the challenges ahead.
“We are in an exciting period of economic growth potential in Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario and while there are certainly many challenges, I am looking forward to working with all of our stakeholders and partners to advance our economy and tourism,” Taylor said.
“I appreciate the efforts Mr. Zakrewski has put forth in building a strong team and brand with the CEDC and look forward to creating positive, impactful results for our community.”
Peter Marchl, chair of the CEDC’s board of directors, said Taylor was the right choice to further Thunder Bay’s economic development fortunes.
He doesn’t foresee any transition obstacles as she assumes her new role.
“Given a smooth transition of leadership is absolutely critical, we’ve been able to co-ordinate a transition period for Eric and Jamie to work alongside each other. Eric and Jamie have an established productive working relationship and I know Eric is 100 per cent committed to ensuring Jamie’s success, and that of the CEDC staff and the organization as whole.”
