June 29, 2021
Norwalk, Ohio – Norwalk Economic Development Corporation (NEDC) announces that Sarah Ross will be joining its economic development staff team as Executive Director effective July 26th. 
Ross joins NEDC from her position as Program Director at Erie County Economic Development Corporation (ECEDC) which she has held for the past three years. She has extensive experience both in the private sector and more recently in leading economic development programs which will greatly contribute to NEDC’s mission to identify and capitalize on opportunities to continuously improve the Norwalk area’s business base.
Ross’ Notable accomplishments include playing a key role in the attraction of Ardagh Group to Huron, a $400,000,000+ project creating 211 new jobs, leading the entrepreneur support program RISE, which NEDC is a partner of – doubling its client base, and helping to facilitate the development of Firelands Forward – a regional workforce collaboration. Ross’ communication skills, work with minority and small business, and involvement with local education initiatives will strengthen NEDC core programs and improve economic development coordination in the greater Norwalk Community. NEDC President John Lendrum commented,
“I’m confident Sarah will lead NEDC as a skilled and highly motivated Director that expertly manages the change required to sustain and improve economic development in Norwalk.”
Ross added,
“I’m excited to join NEDC to build off the great work that’s been done to support private industry, job creation, wealth generation, and growth for the Norwalk community. My experience within our regional Economic Development system combined with NEDC’s forward-thinking and collaborative attitude will be a recipe for success in Norwalk.”
Ross will lead NEDC as an organization with over 55 investors that operates from the Development Center at 12 Benedict Avenue. The five strategic priorities of NEDC include being a resource connector, workforce conduit, industry supporter, business advocate, and regional partner. To learn more about NEDC, visit www.norwalknedc.com.