Mark Williams

About Mark Williams

I have more than 30 years of experience in community and economic development, working with various levels of government, private sector, and non-profit organizations. I have a proven track record of developing and implementing innovative solutions for complex challenges in land development, business attraction, downtown revitalization, entrepreneur development, incentive negotiations, and grant administration. I have also demonstrated my leadership and collaboration skills by serving as the President of the Illinois Enterprise Zone Association and the Chairman of the Illinois Development Council, among other roles. My passion is to create and sustain vibrant and prosperous communities that offer opportunities and quality of life for all.

Experience

1. Executive Director

   Dekalb County Economic Development Corporation Dcedc

   Sep 2023 — Present

   The DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC) is a public/private partnership working to facilitate sustainable and diversified economic growth within DeKalb County, IL.I act as the primary advocate for building a strong, adaptive, and equitable economy in DeKalb County. Initiating, organizing and completing projects, studies, and activities which lead to successful economic growth and development countywide.In addition to leading retention and expansion efforts, I act as a critical liaison between the DCEDC Board and the business community at large, often take a lead role in community efforts which help to foster a progressive business climate through streamlined and transparent regulations, incentives, workforce development and training, and advocacy.

Education

• Southern Illinois University, Carbondale

  BS, Geograpy/Regional Planning, Economics, Environmental Systems