The Clallam County Economic Development Corporation has a new leader spearheading the organization that looks to both assist existing county businesses and recruit new business entities to the region.
The EDC board last week announced the hiring of Robert Schroeter as the organization’s new executive director and chief executive officer. He will assume responsibilities on May 1.
Douglas Sellon, who has been serving as interim executive director, will remain the organization’s chairman.
“We are extremely fortunate to have Bob joining the EDC in this important leadership role,” Sellon said. “Bob is a very skillful communicator who brings people and organizations together through cooperation and collaboration.”
Schroeter holds a law degree from Gonzaga University and has over 20 years’ experience in various roles in private and public management, serving as Comcast Director of Government Affairs in Oregon and Director of Operational Support at the Washington State Liquor &Cannabis Board. He also has served as municipal attorney for several small Washington jurisdictions and as a Washington State Assistant Attorney General.
“The greatest attraction for me is the dedication of the Clallam EDC board members and staff, their vision for the future, and the immense local pride and community support,” Schroeter said.
“From an economic standpoint, there is real opportunity to build on the historic strength of our communities, the strong foundation for business success and the unique beauty of Clallam County.”
In his most recent role, he was the executive director of the Washington Association of Conservation Districts where he was responsible for organizational management, policy and statewide leadership of the organization.
“Bob was a standout in our interview process,” Kelly Fox, EDC board member and CEO of Lumber Traders, said. “His experience working in small towns leads me to believe that he could mesh well with our community. He also has a willingness to learn and is likely to do everything in his power to make sure that he understands the communities that make up our county and their unique needs.”
Added Sequim City Manager Charlie Bush, a member of the EDC hiring committee, “We are excited to have Bob join our countywide team. He has a collaborative and flexible style, plus a strong record of results in his prior professional roles. This combination will serve our region well.”
About the EDC
The Clallam County Economic Development Corporation is a private nonprofit 501(c)6 organization assisting businesses in Clallam County since 1985. It was restructured at the beginning of 2014 to become a “more nimble organization” with a mission to both assist existing county businesses and recruit new businesses to the region.
The organization’s vision is “to increase Clallam County’s prosperity through business recruitment, retention, innovation and expansion.”
According to EDC sources, private sector support for the organization also has grown from 32 businesses in 2014 to more than 115 in 2016. Schroeter will be responsible for the ongoing management of these and other programs.
