National search comes to successful conclusion with appointment of 25+ year veteran with strong background in business development, community impact and venture investment to leadership
 The Michigan Economic Development Corporation Executive Committee today named Quentin L. Messer, Jr. as MEDC CEO. The announcement comes following a national search led by the organization’s Executive Committee.
“We work hard every day to bring good jobs to Michigan and support strong communities across our state through the critical work of the MEDC. Quentin brings a wealth of experience to this role and a clear passion for ensuring the benefits of economic development extend to everyone,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “These attributes will serve Michigan well as we continue to foster economic opportunity statewide and get people back to work. We are excited to welcome Quentin to Michigan to join the MEDC team and get to work for our people, communities and businesses.”
As CEO, Messer is charged with implementing and executing MEDC’s core mission of business development and attraction, community development, providing access to capital and enhancing Michigan’s image and brand. His responsibilities will include administering all programs, funds, personnel, contracts and all other administrative functions of MEDC.
An IEDC certified economic developer, Messer comes to the MEDC from the New Orleans Business Alliance (NOLABA) where he has served as President and CEO since 2015. He led efforts around business attraction, small business growth, talent development, branding and market responsive, equitable economic growth while also cultivating robust partner relationships and leading efforts to secure significant private sector investment. Under Messer’s leadership, NOLABA became one of fewer than 90 economic development organizations globally to earn accreditation from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
“America is at its best when Michigan is at its best, and I’m thrilled to join the proven MEDC team, the Governor, the legislature and economic development stakeholders across this great state in driving an economy that creates upward mobility and opportunity for the broadest possible group of Michiganders,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr. “Economic development is about connecting people to good jobs, connecting businesses to great people and financial capital, and supporting vibrant communities, and I look forward to doing this vital work at MEDC.”
Messer replaces Mark Burton, who stepped down from the position in March of this year. MEDC Executive Committee Chairman Awenate Cobbina and Vice Chairman Jeff Noel will continue to lead the MEDC until Messer’s appointment takes effect on July 19, 2021. Noel will serve as the official CEO, as legally required, with decisions and approvals being concurrently executed with Cobbina.
Read the full release here.
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