The Bay County Economic Development Alliance (EDA) is pleased to announce the hiring of the new executive director, Janet Watermeier. Watermeier has over 15 years of experience in the private and public sectors and brings an impressive record of achievement to the EDA.
Watermeier will be the county’s primary economic development professional charged with leading Bay County’s successful efforts to attract new businesses and industries, sustain and grow existing businesses and industries and coordinate efforts with regional and state economic development entities.
Watermeier served as the economic development director for Lee County, FL for seven years. During that time, she facilitated the creation of nearly 5,000 jobs in 105 target industry expansion and location projects producing a combined annual economic impact of over $350 million. She served as chair of the Airport Special Management Committee as the Southwest Florida International Airport grew in its $470 million expansion. Her service on the committee allowed her to be instrumental in the economic development efforts associated with the industrial and technology parks around the newly expanded airport.
“She is passionate about Bay County and committed to the economic growth in which our community expects from their economic development organization,” said Elizabeth J. Walters, chair of the EDA board of directors. “We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Watermeier at one of the most opportune times in Bay County’s history. This will be a remarkable time for our community.”
Watermeier’s responsibilities will include leading strategic planning and marketing efforts, team-building between elected and appointed officials and promoting Bay County as a desirable business location.
Click here to view Watermeier’s resume.
