South Western Kentucky EDC Announces New Executive Director
01/07/2020
Carter Hendricks
For Immediate Release – January 6, 2020
South Western Kentucky Economic Development Council Announces New Executive Director
The South Western Kentucky Economic Development Council (SWK EDC) and its Board of Directors today announce the hiring of Carter Hendricks as the next Executive Director of the organization. Mr. Hendricks will assume the position effective February 1, 2020, replacing outgoing Executive Director, Mark Lindsey.
“Over the last few weeks, our executive committee considered several candidates in an effort to find a proven leader. That leader should have strong regional relationships, knowledge of the economic development process, and a passion for aggressively recruiting and retaining industry and businesses to help our region create jobs and grow,” says Lee Conrad, Board Chairperson of the South Western Kentucky Economic Development Council. “After the resignation of the current director, Carter reached out to us and expressed interest in the position. We believe we have found the ideal candidate in Carter.”
Todd County Judge Executive Todd Mansfield stated, “Todd County is excited to continue working closely with the SWK EDC and believe Carter Hendricks is a great choice to lead the organization. His regional knowledge combined with his strong connections at the state level and with the TVA should assist our regional partnership as we aggressively pursue new businesses while supporting our current industrial base.”
Trigg County Judge Executive Hollis Alexander added, “Carter’s regional roots run deep. But, more importantly, he has a proven record of working with local, state and federal officials to advocate for economic growth and development in our region.”
Carter will join the SWK EDC team and will continue to work closely with Associate Director Sharon Butts.
Christian County Judge Executive Steve Tribble commented, “I have known Carter since his high school years and have always been impressed with his drive and passion for our region. Carter has proven that he is willing to partner to get things done, doesn’t care about who gets the credit, and has a sincere desire to help the Southwest Kentucky region be the best it can be. I am thrilled that he had interest in this position and that the SWK EDC Board of Directors had the foresight to allow him this new opportunity to lead.”
Hendricks currently serves as the Mayor of Hopkinsville. He will be resigning the Mayor’s position, effective February 1, 2020, to assume his new role with the SWK EDC. Previously, he was the President/CEO of the Christian County Chamber of Commerce. In his time as Mayor and President/CEO of the Chamber, Carter has played an instrumental role in the formation of the Southern Pennyrile Chamber Alliance and the Fort Campbell Strong Defense Alliance.
Additionally, Carter has worked closely with the SWK EDC to recruit and retain industries throughout the Southwest Kentucky region.
Hendricks shared, “I am honored and thrilled to be provided this opportunity to continue serving this community and region. I have enjoyed my time as Mayor of Hopkinsville and feel good about what we’ve been able to accomplish over the past several years. I believe in our region and look forward to recruiting and retaining businesses and industries, creating jobs, and improving the economic climate of Southwest Kentucky.”
For more information about this release or the South Western Kentucky Economic Development Council, please contact Lee Conrad 270-484-1363.