Regional Economic Development’s New Voice

Gander
July 4, 2006

Kittiwake Economic Development Corporation has a new dynamic within its office with the hiring of all new staff.

Jill Bennett officially stepped into the Executive Director’s position on April 17th. She started with KEDC last May on a LMP contract and with her hard work and highly successful record; she went on to fill the position of Economic Development Officer and then, Executive Director within an eleven month period. Jill has previously worked with such organizations as Junior Achievement and the Gander and Area Chamber of Commerce.

“Since assuming the position of Executive Director, I have been working diligently to raise the profile of the Kittiwake Economic Development Corporation so that businesses are aware of us and the role we play in supporting entrepreneurs, and exploring economic opportunities within Zone 14. The office has undergone a complete change in staff and we are excited about the fresh perspective this brings to the Corporation and to the region,” Jill says of the recent change and her work thus far.

Crystal Anderson assumed her role as Economic Development Officer on June 1st. Her duties include responding to requests for support and assistance from community based groups, organizations, and municipalities and coordinating the implementation of business initiatives in Zone 14. She also works with the private sector and stakeholders in economic development to coordinate and facilitate the delivery of tools and resources to assist business and community growth. Crystal is a recent graduate of Memorial University where she completed a Bachelor of Commerce (Co-operative) degree.

“Since stepping into the Economic Development Officer position, I have been able to see only a small portion of the potential in the area. I am excited not only for the experience I will gain but for the projects that I will be a part of and the people I will meet and work with along the way,” Crystal says.

The latest addition to KEDC is Sharon Loder as the new Administrative Assistant. Sharon was previously employed with the Kittiwake Coast Tourism Association before becoming a full-time employee with KEDC.

It is hoped this new dynamic at KEDC will bring regional economic development to a new level by having more of a presence within the area and being at the forefront of the initiatives that will benefit Zone 14 as a whole.

Kittiwake Economic Development Corporation is the Regional Economic Development Board serving the Kittiwake Coast which extends west to Lewisporte, north to Fogo, and east to Charlottetown.

For more information, please contact: Jill Bennett, Executive Director, 709.256.2724.

Back