The city of Wilmington has hired Louis Starks as its new business and economic development manager, bringing a veteran economic development professional to a leadership role focused on business growth, entrepreneurship and workforce development.
Starks will work with residents, businesses, community organizations, educational institutions and regional partners to support economic investment and innovation, according to a city of Wilmington news release. His responsibilities will include helping small businesses access city procurement opportunities, developing public-private partnerships and leading initiatives aimed at long-term economic growth.
“Louis has built his career around helping individuals, organizations, and communities reach their
full potential,” City Manager Becky Hawke said in the news release. “Whether supporting entrepreneurs, managing complex redevelopment projects, or bringing together public and private partners, he has consistently focused on creating opportunity and delivering results. He understands that a strong economy creates opportunities for everyone. By supporting local businesses and fostering innovation, his work will help ensure the benefits of Wilmington’s growth are felt throughout the community, creating jobs, strengthening neighborhoods, and improving quality of life for residents.”
Starks is scheduled to begin the position on Monday, July 27.
Experience spans economic development and public policy
Starks brings more than 20 years of experience in economic development, urban planning, housing finance, workforce development and public policy.
Most recently, he served as manager of business development for Oakland County, Michigan, where he oversaw teams focused on business retention and expansion as well as financial services. During his tenure, those teams supported billions of dollars in business investment initiatives and helped create thousands of jobs, according to the announcement.
In Wilmington, city officials said Starks will focus on strengthening the local business environment while creating opportunities for businesses of varying sizes.
Education and professional credentials
Starks holds a Juris Doctor and a Master of Arts in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Iowa. He also earned a bachelor's degree from Duke University and is a Certified Economic Development Professional.
City leaders said the position plays a key role in advancing economic opportunities across Wilmington while supporting entrepreneurship, workforce development and business investment.
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This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: New Wilmington manager to focus on business growth, jobs
