TWIN FALLS, ID (PRESS RELEASE) Southern Idaho Economic Development Organization (SIEDO) announced today the hiring of Connie Stopher to serve as Executive Director.  Connie Stopher has served as executive director of the South Coast Development Council in Coos Bay, Oregon.  Ms. Stopher will begin as SIEDO’s ED on March 15, 2017.

In this position, Stopher will be responsible for leading the economic development activities in southern Idaho to develop and grow the region by working closely with SIEDO’s executive board, member cities/counties, the College of Southern Idaho, Business Plus (a regional private business non-profit organization), regional/state agencies and site selectors.  Her efforts will be focused on talent attraction and business recruitment, expansion and retention.

SIEDO was formed in 2001 to support and expand economic development efforts throughout southern Idaho.

           I feel incredibly honored to have been selected for the position with SIEDO,” Stopher said.  “The region has seen tremendous success over the last several years, and I’m excited to be working with the talented individuals and communities that have supported that growth.”

“We are excited to add Connie Stopher to SIEDO in support of our many communities, regional and state partners,” said Dan Olmstead, SIEDO chair.  “She brings extensive skills in all areas of economic development having run a successful like organization in Oregon.  She offers the ability to develop a vision for the region to move the organization and economic successes in Southern Idaho forward.  She has already connected with several of our regional partners in the interview process and is ready to hit the ground running,” he said.

Brad Wills has served as interim director since October and will be available to assist Stopher through the transition phase.  “Brad has been tremendous in keeping SIEDO moving forward over the last few months.  We were fortunate to have him with us and extend him our thanks for all his hard work,” Olmstead said.

Source: Southern Idaho Economic Development Director

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