MOUNT VERNON – The Board of Directors of the Area Development Foundation is excited to announce the hiring of Jeff Gottke as its next president.
After a three-month search, the board officially named Gottke as successor to Jeffry Harris, who left to practice law in Columbus following a successful five-year tenure. The search process attracted dozens of local and out-of-town candidates with a wide background of experience.
“As our organization’s former vice president, Jeff has extensive professional knowledge and many diverse local relationships, enabling him to quickly transition into this role. After the executive committee reviewed resumes and conducted interviews, it became clear he had the right skillsets to provide continuity and leadership to ADF,” said Vickie Sant, board chair.
Gottke served as the interim president for the past three months.
“Since November 2018, Gottke has led the Knox County Land Bank through a successful first year in operation, shepherded four villages in the county through a strategic planning process and led efforts to create revitalization areas in strategic neighborhoods in Mount Vernon,” said Sant.
Gottke brings to the job a vast knowledge of the local area and economic development practices. A near life-long resident of Mount Vernon, a former Mount Vernon High School teacher and city council member, he is connected to the community through numerous local boards and committees. Gottke resides in Mount Vernon with his wife and three young children.
“I am grateful for the opportunity and the trust the ADF Board has placed in me to continue the vital role of growing Knox County’s economy and improving its quality of life. The rural lifestyle, historic charm, educational institutions and strong manufacturing base make Knox County unique in the region. I look forward to strengthening existing businesses and attracting new ones so that Knox County can continue to prosper.” said Gottke.
The Area Development Foundation was created in the 1950s to develop the Mount Vernon Industrial Park. Since then it has grown to become the economic development partner for all of Knox County. ADF’s primary responsibilities focus on recruiting and retaining high paying jobs, negotiating public-private development deals, community development and planning, and workforce development.
