CLARKSVILLE, TN – The Clarksville-Montgomery County Economic Development Council and the Industrial Development Board Executive Committee are pleased to announce they have received a commitment from Shea Hopkins to fill the position of vice president of Industrial Development.
The IDB is a government agency corporation established in 1963 to maintain and increase employment opportunities by recruiting companies to locate here. The IDB has evolved to further develop and diversify the economy through sound, controlled economic growth.
Hopkins is currently vice president of Economic Development at the Granbury Chamber of Commerce in Granbury, Texas, where she led the development of a strategic plan for business retention and recruitment. Hopkins has acquired a diverse background in business and industry, holding roles in business recruitment, talent development, supply chain management, and purchasing and logistics. Hopkins holds a Bachelor of Applied Science from the Texas Women’s University. Hopkins has three young children and said that the great schools were a key factor drawing her to the community.
“What attracted me to Clarksville was its perfect combination of Southern charm and modern innovation. I am excited and proud to join a brilliant team working towards fostering economic growth for the entire region. Helping create jobs and generating investment improves people’s lives, and that is what it is all about,” said Hopkins.
In her role, Hopkins will lead the IDB and is responsible for cultivating local, regional, and state partnerships to promote opportunities in Clarksville-Montgomery County; developing sites and buildings to meet market prospects; as well as supporting and advocating for existing businesses.
To recruit the best candidate, a nationwide search was conducted with prominent economic development affiliations posting the position, including the Southern Economic Development Council, the Tennessee Economic Development Council. The organization received 54 resumes, and a committee selected six candidates to interview, narrowing the search to two candidates for second-round interviews. She will begin her role on Sept. 1.
“Shea is a positive leader and will be a great fit for Clarksville-Montgomery County and the IDB. Her energetic nature and broad expertise lead the hiring team to select Hopkins as the best candidate, including her experience creating and managing an effective Business, Retention, and Expansion program. I am excited for her to strengthen our local business community and expand our recruitment efforts with her valuable skill sets,” said Buck Dellinger, EDC CEO.
“Shea’s professional experience in business, retention, and expansion will be a great asset to our Industrial Development team,” said Khandra Smalley, IDB Chair. “The EDC hiring committee conducted a comprehensive review of a number of applicants interested in this position, which is a testament of the commitment to select the right candidate to lead the IDB team and enhance industrial development activities in our community.”