Johnston Economic Development Corporation Names New Executive Director
Jennifer Sayers to Serve as New Lead Executive for the Organization
Jennifer Sayers has been selected to serve as the new Executive Director for the Johnston Economic Development Corporation (JEDCO). Jennifer will be taking over from interim director Joe Benesh, who continues to serve the organization in the implementation of their strategic plan and provide Jennifer with support in the transition.
Sayers, who owns Bijou Grafix, has a long history of community involvement. “I have a passion for connecting people and resources to make community projects happen,” she said. “I especially enjoy facilitating the larger private/public ventures,” said Sayers of her contributions to improving and working for the betterment of the Des Moines region.
Jennifer was a longtime board member of the Drake Neighborhood Association and the Corporation for Economic Development in Des Moines. She is a current board member of the Roosevelt Cultural District and Jordahl Academy/Choice Charter School. Sayers also currently volunteers on the Beaverdale Park Restoration committee, lead the Witmer Park renovation committee, and chaired the 42nd Streetscape Project.
“We are very excited about the next steps for JEDCO,” Brian Vahle, JEDCO Board President stated. “We have all the right pieces in place to meet the most pressing needs of our members and Jennifer will be an integral part of that.”
Jennifer will lead the day-to-day operations of JEDCO, work collaboratively with the City of Johnston, and in concert with the Johnston Area Chamber of Commerce, to promote attraction and retention of businesses, support workforce development, and provide resources and networking opportunities aimed at raising awareness of economic development opportunities in Johnston.