Top 10 Economic Development Directors - 2026

Economic development often takes shape where business needs and community opportunities intersect. At Horsham Township, Larry Burns brings that perspective to his role after 30 years as a commercial banker. His connection to the township grew through community service, including 12 years on the police pension advisory board, 3 years on the township’s planning commission, and 7 years of service on the Horsham Township Authority for the NAS-JRB Willow Grove.

Adam Ruechel is an economic development professional who has long focused on how communities can grow without losing what makes them worth calling home, balancing responsible development, infrastructure planning, and long-term community character while working with residents, businesses, and leaders.

Stephen Prestesater is a seasoned government professional whose experience across federal, county, and municipal roles now informs his work to shape Milton’s economic future, from infrastructure and workforce needs to business development, longterm planning, and regional partnerships.

Alora Wachholz serves as Director of Economic Development and Executive Director of the SEDC, where a deep commitment to public service guides her leadership. Shaped by her upbringing in a small town and firsthand experience with economic hardship, she believes economic development is ultimately about improving lives.

Benigno Sandoval didn’t initially aspire to city leadership. He began in the trenches, working directly with small businesses and learning their operational realities firsthand. After earning a degree in business administration and a public relations minor from California State University, Dominguez Hills, he spent 13 years at the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board, engaging with 50,000 businesses across every sector.

Buddy Rizer is a strategic economic development leader known for driving Loudoun County’s growth into a global data center hub. With expertise in business expansion, technology infrastructure and public policy, he has played a major role in attracting billion-dollar investments and strengthening regional economic development.

Alex Philips is an experienced economic development professional with a relationship-driven approach to business and community growth. With deep expertise in operational planning and strategic initiatives, he creates sustainable local growth and strong community engagement.

Brandon Smith’s work in Liberty encompasses major industrial recruitment, employer retention and community-focused development. The city’s portfolio includes a $1.4 billion data center project, a diversified employer base and redevelopment of a long-vacant site on its historic square.

Danielle Poe is an economic development professional with over 12 years of experience in community development. Her work spans economic development initiatives, relationship building and quality-of-life improvement strategies.