New Door County Economic Development Director Hired

The board of directors of the Door County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC) has selected Michelle Lawrie to be the organization’s next executive director, following a search throughout Wisconsin. Lawrie will replace Steve Jenkins, who resigned earlier this year. She will start her new position May 9.

Lawrie has more than 20 years’ experience in economic development at the regional and local levels in Washington, D.C.; Arizona; and Wisconsin, focusing on serving the public interest through economic development, issue advocacy and coalition building. 

Lawrie began her economic-development career at the Greater Phoenix [Arizona] Economic Council, then became president and CEO of the Western Maricopa Coalition in western Maricopa County, Arizona. She later served as the economic development/community development director for Goodyear, Arizona; and DeForest, Wisconsin.

Lawrie has extensive experience in developing strategic plans and performance measures for organizations, as well as leading teams toward achieving goals.

“I have been very impressed by the dedication of the staff, the board of directors and the partners of the organization,” Lawrie said. “I am looking forward to serving the community as executive director of DCEDC, as well as making the area my home.”

Brian Stephens, DCEDC board chair and CEO of Door County Medical Center, said Lawrie has an opportunity to build on the positive momentum that’s happening locally in the areas of broadband, workforce housing, day care initiatives and attracting talented individuals to work and start businesses. 

“Michelle has the unique set of skills and the right personality to bring people together around these important issues and find solutions to address them,” Stephens said. “We look forward to supporting her and the DCEDC team in accomplishing these goals.”