TALLAHASSEE, Fla., January 28, 2021 – Tallahassee-Leon County Office of Economic Vitality (OEV) Director Cristina Paredes has been named as one of this year’s Top 50 Economic Developers. This list is developed annually by Consultant Connect, a consulting agency designed to bridge the gap between economic developers and site consultants.
This annual list recognizing the nation’s Top 50 Economic Developers acknowledges the hard work of the top leaders in this field and elevates the conversation around economic development and job creation. Cristina was one of five Economic Developers recognized from the state of Florida.
With nearly 15 years of local government experience across several disciplines, Cristina has devoted the past five years to supporting Tallahassee-Leon County’s strong business climate with OEV. In February of 2020, Cristina earned the designation of Certified Economic Developer (CEcD), a national recognition that denotes a mastery of skills in economic development from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
“I am truly honored to join this list of outstanding and dedicated individuals in the economic development field,” said Paredes. “Being part of a great community, like Tallahassee, and supportive organizations, such as OEV, the County, and the City, has been rewarding for me throughout my career. As true economic development is truly a team effort, I share this achievement with my incredible team and community.”
Under Cristina’s leadership, OEV earned four IEDC awards and launched the Magnetic Capital of the World campaign, leading to a three-fold increase in business development activity, including the recent announcement of the Danfoss expansion adding over 230 jobs and millions of capital investment to the local economy. The Office also re-launched a local businesses support initiative, Love Your Local campaign, and promoted economic inclusion by expanding supplier diversity opportunities, and developing and implementing the consolidated MWSBE policies.
The professionals selected as a top economic developer were nominated in both the economic development industry and the site location consulting industry for excellent practices, innovation and success in building the communities they serve. Each recipient will receive their award at Consultant Connect’s ECONOMIX event later this year.
“This year’s group faced hurdles unlike any other Top 50 group has seen over the past year, and we are honored to provide a platform for them to be recognized for the incredibly hard work that they do every day for their communities,” said Carla Sones, managing director of Consultant Connect.
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