Christensen: ‘Coast is one of state’s biggest assets’
On the job since last June, Mississippi’s newest economic development director, Brent Christensen, has already prioritized and streamlined the goals of the Mississippi Development Authority. And, he’s seeking ways to minimize the challenges he’ll be confronting as he strives to promote the state’s economy.
Christensen replaced Gray Swoope, who resigned last year and is now executive director of Enterprise Florida.
Christensen’s most recent post was president and chief executive officer of the Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce in Gainesville, Fla., a position he held for 10 years. He led the chamber’s efforts and those of an economic development arm, the Council for Economic Research, which focused on business recruitment and retention. Under his leadership, the organization announced in 2012 two major investments expected to bring 500 jobs to Gainesville.
Prior to the Gainesville post, he was the vice president of member services at the Greater Tampa (Fla.) Chamber of Commerce. Responsibilities included membership recruitment and retention efforts as well as small business development and assistance programs.
The Journal of South Mississippi Business
3/14/13
