The board of directors of Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation (KEDCO) announced Margaret “Peggy” Friday will join the organization as CEO to lead the community’s economic development efforts.
Friday brings more than 25 years of expertise with a rich background in economic development, business and workforce development, fundraising, government service and communications, according to a news release from KEDCO.
"We’re thrilled to welcome Peggy to the KEDCO team and the community. She brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and ideas, and we look forward to furthering economic development efforts with her leadership," said KEDCO Board Chairman Blaine Conley.
Friday will relocate to Kosciusko County from Rochelle, Ill., where she currently serves as industrial development manager with the city of Rochelle. Friday focuses on economic development programming for industrial and commercial development, including raising public and private funds for industrial projects, leading business retention, attraction and workforce development efforts, and working closely with local schools to retain local talent, to name a few key areas.
Previously, as a city of Rochelle employee, Friday served as executive director/CEO of the Rochelle Chamber of Commerce while performing a dual role as the city’s commercial and retail development coordinator. Highlights during her tenure in leadership included redesigning the organization from nonprofit status to for-profit, significantly increasing membership and business participation, increasing and strengthening public-private partnerships and executing several successful events and marketing campaigns.
Friday also served as Northern Illinois District associate director for U.S. Senator Peter G. Fitzgerald for five years. She was rapidly promoted twice during that time, played a pivotal role as liaison with federal government agencies and military academies, and represented the senator at events and meetings, crafting and delivering public speeches and briefs, the release states.
Friday will relocate to Kosciusko County and join the KEDCO team in early June. She enjoys traveling and spending time with family in Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee and Alabama.
"I am proud to join the KEDCO team. Their passion for growth and commitment to serve the people and businesses throughout the region is evident by their rich history and proven economic development skill," said Friday. "I look forward to building relationships, strengthening infrastructure, creating jobs, advancing private enterprise, retaining businesses, broadening the tax base, and creating opportunities for the people of Kosciusko County."
Stay connected with KEDCO via Facebook, Linkedin and Instagram @kosciuskoedc or by visiting www.kosciuskoedc.com.