The Greater Freeport Partnership continues to evolve and grow as an organization to meet the needs of our members and communities in Freeport, Stephenson County, and regionally.
Partnership Executive Director Mark Williams has tendered his resignation of his position to seek other opportunities and be closer to family. Mark has been a great asset to our team over the last three years with extensive economic development knowledge and experience and is committed to working with the board and staff to ensure a smooth transition until his departure on September 15.
“I would like to thank the board, members of the organization and partners for their support and leadership provided during my time at the Greater Freeport Partnership. The Partnership model continues to evolve and is one that works well in Stephenson County. Moving the needle on economic development requires continuous synchronized efforts in all our areas of focus: business retention and expansion, business attraction, design and placemaking, site development, workforce development, tourism, events, entrepreneurial support, and quality of life. I’m extremely grateful for the entire staff for their support, leadership, and teamwork,” said Williams.
The Partnership would like to thank Williams for his expertise and service to the organization and growing the mission which involved many significant and challenging accomplishments.
“I’d like to thank and acknowledge Mark Williams for his leadership during a pivotal time for the Partnership. He has helped to move the organization forward with a strong focus on economic development and has contributed to the ongoing growth-minded strategy for the organization,” said Partnership Board Chairperson Mark Gridley.
With the recommendation from Williams and full support of the board executive committee, Andrea Schultz Winter will assume the role of interim executive director for the Partnership. Schultz Winter joined the Partnership as development director in 2019 and has worked diligently in her role to serve the businesses and unique interests of the community.
“I’m very confident in Andrea Schultz Winter taking the reins as interim executive director after my transition in September,” said Williams.
“As development director, I have had an enriching opportunity to work alongside Mark (Williams) for the past three years. He has been a wonderful mentor and provided guidance to deepen my skills as an economic developer. I look forward to leading this organization alongside our dedicated, talented team and continuing to support our government and business partners in our shared goal of economic development and growth,” said Schultz Winter.
The Partnership Board of Directors and staff are confident the organization will progress through this transition to ensure the continued development and success of the organization. The Greater Freeport Partnership continues to be the place where people and organizations unite to advocate for economic development and growth throughout our region.
For additional remarks from Andrea Schultz Winter, see her post Smooth Transitions.
