Ellen Heinz was named to the role on February 13th, 2024.
Listen to the entire conversation with Ellen Heinz here
The Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development and Richland Community Development Group (RCDG) proudly announce the selection of Ellen Heinz as the next President & CEO. This appointment follows a thorough search facilitated by the Chamber's board and a selection committee led by Kristine Lindeman, Vice President of Alumni Roofing, and Jake Penwell, President of Shelby CIC/Owner of Penwell Funeral Home.
Heinz, currently serving as Ohio Economic Development Representative at the U.S. Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration, brings a wealth of experience in economic development, collaboration, and community engagement. In her current role, she has excelled as the public relations point for Ohio, earning national recognition for superior federal service and catalyzing over $35 million in funding.
Heinz's extensive background includes roles such as Vice President of Corporate Development at Norweco and Safety Service Director for the City of Norwalk. Her diverse experiences range from launching talent development programs and innovative business initiatives to managing public safety services.
“We are excited to welcome Ellen to the executive leadership role of President/CEO of our organization. Ellen’s passion for Richland County stems from having lived and worked here previously. She is relationship-driven, and we are confident this will accelerate her ability to reconnect while establishing new relationships. It has been a pleasure to be a part of the hiring process, and we are looking forward to introducing Ellen to our Richland County communities,” commented Kristine Lindeman, Richland Area Chamber Board Chair.
"We are excited to welcome Ellen Heinz to lead the Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development. Her track record of success, particularly in attracting investments and fostering community partnerships, aligns seamlessly with our goals for the future," expressed Jake Penwell, RCDG Board Chair.
The Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development and RCDG are the leading business advocacy and economic development organizations in North Central Ohio. With over 1,000 members, the Chamber supports business growth and building a business-friendly climate in the Richland County area.
“I'm very excited to join the Richland Area Chamber team! I couldn't ask for a better region of businesses, board members, team members, political leaders, community organizations, and citizens to work with and serve in my new role. I look forward to working together with all of these wonderful stakeholders to bring about additional positive results, building on the success and collaboration currently taking place in the Richland area. I am extremely thankful to have worked for the U.S. Economic Development Administration's Chicago Regional Office for the last three years. Effective leadership and colleagues have helped me grow as a professional and as a person and will add to what I bring into this exceptional role,” replied Ellen Heinz, M.Ed., OhioCED.