Covington, Louisiana, a hub of economic growth marked by new businesses and developments.
Chris Masingill, the CEO of the St. Tammany Economic Development Corporation, will leave to become the President of Louisiana Central. Under his leadership, the EDC facilitated $300 million in investments and created 2,300 jobs, marking significant economic growth for the region. Masingill will assist in finding his successor before his transition in August, highlighting the impact of his leadership on St. Tammany’s development as an economic player.
Covington, Louisiana – Chris Masingill, the Chief Executive Officer of the St. Tammany Economic Development Corporation (EDC) since July 2018, has announced his departure to take on the role of President and CEO at Louisiana Central, a regional economic development organization that serves ten parishes from its headquarters in Alexandria, Louisiana. Masingill is scheduled to transition to his new position in August but will assist in the search for his successor in the meantime.
His resignation marks a significant change for the St. Tammany EDC, which has seen considerable growth and development under his leadership. During his tenure, the organization facilitated approximately $300 million in new or expanded business investments and helped create around 2,300 jobs. This growth trajectory has contributed positively to the local economy, signaling a shift away from St. Tammany’s traditional identity as merely a residential area.
Joan Coffman, President of the St. Tammany EDC’s Board, confirmed that a search committee will be appointed to find a replacement for Masingill. Masingill himself plans to play an active role in the recruitment efforts, ensuring a smooth transition for the organization.
Masingill’s departure comes at a time when the St. Tammany EDC has developed into a strategic and results-driven organization. The agency’s increase in business activity is indicative of Masingill’s effective leadership and focus on economic development. Notably, he was a strong advocate for various projects, including a proposed casino in Slidell, which aimed to further stimulate local economic growth.
In his commentary about leaving, Masingill described the occasion as “bittersweet,” noting his deep attachment to St. Tammany and emphasizing that this new opportunity represents significant professional advancement. His departure signifies an important juncture for the organization, which has benefitted from his leadership and innovative approach to regional development.
Louisiana Central, where Masingill will lead, encompasses ten parishes: Allen, Avoyelles, Catahoula, Concordia, Grant, LaSalle, Natchitoches, Rapides, Vernon, and Winn. The Central Louisiana region has a population of nearly 350,000 and features diverse economic sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, logistics, and distribution. This diversity presents ample opportunities for continued growth and development in the region, which is poised to benefit from Masingill’s extensive background and expertise in economic strategies.
Masingill previously served as co-chairman of the Delta Regional Authority and was a director and policy advisor for former Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe. His diverse experience in economic development and governmental operations adds depth to his upcoming role at Louisiana Central, where he is expected to continue fostering economic opportunities for the region.
The significance of Central Louisiana for state economic gains has been underscored by the Louisiana Economic Development Secretary. Masingill’s past achievements position him well to advocate for the unique needs of the Central Louisiana region, further enhancing its economic profile within the broader state context.
As St. Tammany transitions to new leadership, the community reflects on the vital advancements made under Masingill’s watch. His departure signals both change and continued opportunities for the region to evolve into a robust and vibrant part of the state’s economy, reinforcing that St. Tammany is no longer merely a “bedroom community” but an active player in Louisiana’s economic landscape.
News Summary The Denka Performance Elastomer plant in St. John the Baptist Parish has suspended…
News Summary The U.S. Department of Justice has decided to dismiss its three-year investigation into…
News Summary Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has taken decisive action following a jailbreak at the…
News Summary The Louisiana House of Representatives has passed House Bill 685, which bans diversity,…
News Summary Sterling Williams, a maintenance worker at the Orleans Parish Justice Center, has been…
News Summary In New Orleans, two individuals have been arrested in connection with a jailbreak…