The Washington Economic Development Group board of directors has selected Melanie Bimson to succeed Executive Director Mary Audia, who is retiring.
Ms. Bimson, a Washington native, will leave her position as economic development program manager with Greater Iowa City Inc. to lead WEDG. She will begin Jan. 19 and work with Ms. Audia during a first-quarter transition period before her retirement.
Greater Iowa City Inc. is a network of business and public sector leaders who collaborate to support local companies, guide investment and grow a resilient economy throughout Johnson County.
“Melanie understands the foundation of our organization and is anxious to continue the exceptional work of all who have helped get WEDG where we are today,” said Brett DeWolf, WEDG board president. “We look forward to Melanie joining the WEDG team, and we are excited to have her leadership, experience and enthusiasm.”
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According to a release, “The WEDG organization has carried out an aggressive and successful plan of work that aims to create and promote a sustainable environment for economic growth in Washington County” while under the leadership of the WEDGE board and Ms. Audia, who has been with the group since 2020.
In October, the WEDG board adopted an updated strategic plan that identifies four strategic pillars for action: building childcare capacity, existing business retention and expansion, housing and workforce development, and continuing as a catalyst for action throughout Washington County.
Ms. Bimson said her experience at Greater IC has involved working with companies and communities at various growth stages, focusing on solving challenges and connecting business needs with practical solutions that strengthen the workforce and communities.
She expressed enthusiasm about bringing this experience to WEDG and collaborating with local and regional partners to support Washington County’s long-term success.
“I couldn’t be more excited about what’s ahead,” Ms. Bimson said in a Dec. 30 LinkedIn post. “A huge thank you to my colleagues at Greater Iowa City, Inc., and the incredible partners I’ve had the privilege of working alongside. At its core, this work is about relationships, and I’m deeply grateful for the smart, committed people who’ve become friends along the way. I’ve learned that the best outcomes come from collaboration, trust, and a little bit of humor when things get complicated.
“As I start this next chapter, I’m proud to represent Washington County, eager to get to work, and fully committed to being a strong regional partner,” she continued.
Amanda Russell, WEDG vice president and search committee co-chair, said the board is excited about the broad range of skills and experiences Ms. Bimson brings to the leadership role and expressed confidence that WEDG is in a strong position for the future.
“We believe that WEDG is currently in a strong position and we’re excited about the future,” she said.
WEDG is a public-private partnership and 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization formed in 1986. It evolved from Washington Industries Inc., a private, community-based for-profit development corporation formed in the 1950s.
