News Summary
Chris Masingill has officially started as the president and CEO of Louisiana Central, focusing on economic development in the Central Louisiana region. With over 20 years of experience, Masingill aims to enhance collaborations and partnerships to boost economic growth. The region has seen significant GDP increases and diverse economic sectors, positioning Central Louisiana for future opportunities. Masingill plans to build on the previous leadership to ensure sustained economic vitality and innovation.
Alexandria, Louisiana – Chris Masingill Begins Tenure as President and CEO of Louisiana Central
Chris Masingill officially began his role as the president and CEO of Louisiana Central on August 27, with a vision focused on enhancing economic development in the Central Louisiana region. Masingill brings over twenty years of experience in economic development to the table, having previously served as the CEO of the St. Tammany Economic Development Corporation, where he was instrumental in securing nearly $300 million in new business investments and the creation of around 2,300 jobs since 2018.
One of Masingill’s primary goals is to elevate the organization’s collaborations and partnerships to further boost economic growth strategies for Central Louisiana, often referred to as Cenla. This region currently ranks third in economic growth among all eight regions in Louisiana, with a significant GDP increase of over $17 billion in the past four years. Masingill is poised to build upon Louisiana Central’s existing legacy and foundation to reach new heights of success.
Economic Landscape
Central Louisiana’s economic base includes diverse sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics and distribution. Notably, key legacy industries in the region include RoyOMartin, which is celebrating a century in operation, Crest Industries, and Procter & Gamble. Consequently, Masingill emphasized the region’s capacity to connect with businesses around the globe due to its advantageous political and industrial assets, as well as its strategic geographical location.
The workforce within the Cenla region is characterized by grit, exemplary work ethic, resilience, and robust ties to faith and family, all of which Masingill believes will aid in attracting new industries. Furthermore, he pointed out the importance of physical assets such as transportation networks, ports, and rail infrastructure in paving the way for future economic opportunities. The potential for further industrial development has caught the attention of Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, who underscored the myriad opportunities available in Central Louisiana and the broader North Louisiana area.
Leadership Transition
Masingill’s appointment follows the transition from Jim Clinton, who concluded his 14-year tenure as president and CEO of Louisiana Central. Under Clinton’s leadership, the organization has made considerable strides in fostering economic growth within a ten-parish region—comprising Allen, Avoyelles, Catahoula, Concordia, Grant, LaSalle, Natchitoches, Rapides, Vernon, and Winn—which is home to nearly 350,000 residents.
Moving forward, Masingill aims to further strengthen Louisiana Central’s initiatives to not only sustain but also to amplify the economic vitality of the region. His broad-ranging experience and focus on innovation and collaboration could play a crucial role in fostering new opportunities for Central Louisiana, ensuring that the region remains a dynamic participant in Louisiana’s economic narrative.
Conclusion
With Chris Masingill at the helm, the future of Louisiana Central is set to be marked by enhanced strategies for economic development, increased collaboration with local industries, and the pursuit of new opportunities that leverage the region’s rich resources and dedicated workforce. As the Cenla area continues to thrive economically, Masingill’s leadership will be vital in driving growth and sustainability moving forward.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- KALB: Louisiana Central’s New CEO Looks to Elevate Economic Development in Cenla
- The Town Talk: Louisiana Central’s Masingill Makes Debut at Rapides Foundation Event
- Biz New Orleans: St. Tammany Economic Development Corporation Announces CEO Change
- NOLA: St. Tammany Economic Development Business Update
- Wikipedia: Economic Development
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
