The Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership has appointed Jessica Heer as its new executive vice president. Heer, who will start August 28, joins FWEDP from her role as senior vice president of regional marketing at the Dallas Regional Chamber.
FWEDP CEO Robert Allen says Heer’s hire marks a major step in the organization’s commitment to driving Fort Worth’s growth.
“We are assembling a team of the best and brightest to accelerate Fort Worth, and Jessica’s innovative thinking, experience managing high-performing teams, and specialism in talent attraction align perfectly with our goals,” Allen said in a statement.
Heer’s “profound understanding of the DFW landscape” is amplified by a personal connection from her own relocation to the region, the CEO said.
Heer brings over 18 years of experience from the DRC, where she led impactful economic development, marketing, communications, and talent initiatives. Her efforts connecting businesses, real estate, and government catalyzed substantial growth across Dallas-Fort Worth.
Dallas Regional Chamber CEO Dale Petroskey expressed support of Heer’s move to Fort Worth’s economic development organization. “While we hate to lose her, we are excited for Jessica and wish her the very best in her new role,” he said.
“Jessica has played a significant role in the DRC’s success over the years, and we are deeply grateful for her contributions,” the DRC CEO said.
At FWEDP, Heer will work closely with VP Sara Thurber to develop pioneering strategies that cement Fort Worth as an economic leader.
FWEDP unveiled in March
The newly formed Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership was unveiled in an announcement by the Fort Worth Chamber’s executive board in March. Allen, who left a statewide role as president and CEO of the Texas Economic Development Corporation, was named CEO at the time.
The privately-funded FWEDP, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit, aims to cultivate economic opportunities and business growth for Fort Worth through development and attraction, the organization said.
Its leaders are focused on bringing together businesses and leaders to fuel the responsible expansion of the city.
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