Sarnia has hired a new director to lead a revitalized economic development department.
Wallaceburg native Kelly Provost comes to Sarnia from the Niagara Region where she gained over 15 years of experience managing economic development projects.
Provost is currently Niagara's acting manager of strategic initiatives. She has a background in entrepreneurship through her experience managing the St. Catharines Small Business Enterprise Centre and teaches at Niagara College.
Mayor Mike Bradley said the current council is restoring an office that has diminished in status and resources the last four or five years.
"The plan is very clear," said Bradley. "We want a dynamic economic development office focused on Sarnia's needs. We will work with the county and Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership (SLEP) but this is all about trying to take the assets that we have, like the airport, and harbour, and to grow them into much bigger opportunities for jobs. And, there are opportunities with the research park and business park in the valley."
Provost's credentials include a Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree from Brock University, a Public Relations Post Graduate certificate from Niagara College, and an Economic Development Certification jointly through the University of Waterloo and Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC).
She said she's looking forward to returning to the region.
"Having grown up in Wallaceburg, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to come back to the area and serve the City of Sarnia," Provost said in a statement. "I look forward to advancing Sarnia’s economic development priorities and helping contribute to its future prosperity."
Provost will start her new duties in Sarnia January 4, 2021.