MAEDA announces new CEO

Durian, a resident of Mason, Michigan, comes to MAEDA most recently from the City of Flint, where he acted as a W.K. Kellogg Foundation funded special advisor for economic development. Among other projects, Durian managed business attraction and retention efforts, packaged incentives for business development, and assisted developers with opportunities. In that position, Durian was awarded a grant from the State of Michigan to support employment and training to help community residents with barriers to employment achieve a career pathway out of poverty.

Prior to his Flint experience, Durian launched his own business, focused on legal services, project management and policy consulting. He is a licensed attorney with the State Bar of Michigan and a certified project management professional with the Project Management Institute. His work has included economic development projects in Battle Creek, Flint and Miami, Florida as well as legal services for clients in the Lansing region.

Mr. Durian’s previous economic development experience includes his work as a Director at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), where he launched and managed the Community Ventures (CV) program. As the director of CV, Durian led a team that implemented the $10 million annual program, partnering with more than 160 companies and creating long-term employment for over 6,000 Michigan residents with barriers to employment. The CV program received national recognition as an economic inclusion best practice from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and a positive evaluation from the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan.

“Jim brings a broad range of knowledge and experience in economic development, including policy and legislative work, project management, and workforce development,” says Matt Davis, Chair, MAEDA Board of Directors. “His innovative approach to attracting, retaining, and developing large and small businesses will be an asset to the Marshall area. The MAEDA board and staff are enthusiastic about continuing to move our organization forward and our area’s future.”

“Marshall’s rich history, vibrant downtown and strong tourism and marketing provides a great foundation to build additional economic growth,” adds Durian. “Marshall is well positioned to be a national leader in community vitality and quality of life. I am excited to play a part in promoting this effort.”

Located in the Welcome Center at the City Hall building, MAEDA is responsible for economic development, chamber of commerce services, and tourism for Marshall. To learn more, please call 269-781-5163 or visit www.choosemarshall.com.

Contact: Kierith Kurth, kierith@choosemarshall.com