Dianne Reid, who has led Orange County’s economic development efforts since 1999, has agreed to take on the same role for Chatham County.
Reid will serve as executive director of the Chatham County Economic Development Corporation. She will begin work in mid-June.
In an announcment of her departure, Reid said she was up for the challenge and thanked those she worked with in Orange County.
“I appreciate the confidence of the EDC Board and look forward to the challenge. I also want to express my appreciation to Orange County’s elected boards, professional staff and volunteers for their support over the past eight years,†she said.
Chatham County Manager Charlie Horne said Reid’s skills are an excellent fit for the county.
“Economic Development is multi-dimensional, and Dianne’s experience, talent and work ethic can meld those pieces into a very solid program for our county,†Horne said.
Chatham County Commissioner George Lucier said the move will bolster the county’s efforts. “Improved economic development is essential for both the long- and short-term success of Chatham County. The hiring of Dianne Reid as director of the EDC is a very positive step in the right direction.â€
Reid is a graduate of UNC with emphasis in sociology/urban and regional studies and also received her Master’s Degree in regional planning from the university. In May 2001, she earned the designation of Certified Economic Developer, the highest professional designation in the economic development field.
Reid is active on the boards of numerous civic and business organizations, including the North Carolina Economic Developers Association, the Research Triangle Regional Partnership, Leadership Triangle and the Hillsborough and Chapel Hill-Carrboro chambers of commerce.
— From Staff Report