New Leadership at Orange County Economic Development Partnership

PAOLI, Ind. (March 5, 2019) — On Friday, March 1st, Board President Alan Beck welcomed Zachary Brown as the Executive Director of the Orange County Economic Development Partnership.

In his previous position at the French Lick Municipal Airport, Zach learned about Orange County’s assets through interaction with clientele including major businesses and hobbyists, each with a unique perspective of the significance of Orange County. As he strived to increase the positive economic impact and the capacity of the airport, Zach gained keen insight into the logistics that influence Orange County. His six-year tenure at the airport was guided by a strategic property development plan that he and his team created to implement their high capacity vision.

When asked about his vision for himself at the organization, he said: “I’m excited to have the opportunity to develop new business and aid in the expansion of current business in the county.” He followed that up by saying that he is excited to be a catalyst for all of the quality of place initiatives that are in the works.

Zach and his family are steeped in the life and culture of Orange County, which increases his investment in the county. Vice President of the OCEDP Board of Directors and Springs Valley Bank & Trust, Ken Schnaus, resounded these words in his encouraging testament of the OCEDP’s past and present leadership.

“The OCEDP has had several consecutive successful years of expanding and improving the economic environment of Orange County. Our revolving loan fund continues to help new and growing businesses with mezzanine financing. We have been able to help untold numbers of entrepreneurs find resources to help them make very important decisions about their future. We facilitated saving an estimated 120 jobs that were scheduled to leave the County. Just to mention some of the things the Partnership has done to help the County.”

With his background and the personal desire to improve his home County, complemented by a personality that lends itself to leading and assisting everywhere he can, Zach makes the perfect candidate for this leadership role. Ken continued, “Without a doubt, Zach has the ability to move Orange County and the Partnership in a positive direction as it helps all of Orange County strengthen its economic environment.”