JREDC launches search for next leader

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:                                                    

February 2, 2026                                                                                                

CONTACT: Jacquie Bartlett

 217.479.4627

JREDC launches search for next leader

The Jacksonville Regional Economic Development Corporation (JREDC) is searching for the next person to lead the organization in achieving its mission to create, expand, recruit and retain job opportunities in Morgan and Scott counties.

The local nonprofit organization is accepting applications from individuals motivated to provide continuous support for Morgan and Scott counties’ established industries, inform city and county government officials of requirements for economic projects; seek opportunities for new, expanding and relocating businesses to Morgan and Scott counties; and develop relationships with statewide, regional and local economic development partners. The community leader will lead all outward facing activities of the organization including program development, investor relations, community relations, small business assistance and workforce development.

“The Jacksonville Regional Economic Development Corporation continues to build on our long-term, positive relationships with local and regional partners to promote development in the Jacksonville area,” said JREDC Board Chairman Kai Schnitker. “We look forward to selecting our next leader to build future success in Morgan and Scott counties.”

Qualified candidates will possess the following skills:

• Five to 10 years of experience in planning, economic or community development
• Experience managing projects and personnel at a nonprofit, public agency or private company
• Experience in planning and execution of fundraising campaigns
• Experience in developing and executing marketing campaigns.

In addition, the search committee is intent on identifying a visionary who can oversee a regional needs study to help determine the top needs of employers in the region, serve as a community liaison, partner with stakeholders to encourage entrepreneurship and assist in developing place-making strategies.

“Jacksonville actively works with JREDC to attract new business and maintain current businesses in the region,” explained City of Jacksonville Mayor Andy Ezard. “We are searching for a person who is able to collaborate well with my team, as well as community partners at the regional and state levels.”

The president position was previously held by Kristin Jamison who accepted a role directing the foundation at Jacksonville Memorial Hospital last fall. Jamison is working with JREDC Vice President Jacquie Bartlett and the search committee to help identify her successor.

“Working for the last seven years to strengthen Morgan and Scott counties has been professionally and personally rewarding,” stated Jamison. “I understand how important it is to identify a candidate who is flexible, committed to building long-term relationships and fully invested in this area. I am honored to serve on this search committee critical to the future of our community.”

The full-time position reports to the JREDC Executive Committee and Board of Directors, and includes Morgan County and Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund benefits. A full job description is posted at https://www.jredc.org/workforce/employment-opportunities/p/item/26587/president

The investor-based group traces its beginnings to 1964 when the Jacksonville Area Industrial Corporation was formed with the objective of creating jobs by acquiring new industries and assisting the growth of existing industries.