Kirk Wendland has been around economic development for most of his career.
An eight-year stint with the former Jacksonville Economic Development Commission, including several years leading the group. Three years as president of the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce. Most recently, the business development director for Stellar, the locally based design, engineering and mechanical service firm.
Wendland calls economic development a “passion” that benefits the community in which he lives. He’s approaching 30 years of experience in the Jacksonville market.
So, when Mayor Lenny Curry asked him to head the city’s Office of Economic Development, it was returning to familiar territory.
Curry’s office announced Wednesday that Wendland was named as the city’s chief economic development officer, succeeding Ted Carter. Curry cited experience both in St. Johns County and the JEDC that will “serve our city well as we work to bring more opportunity” to the city.
“I think Jacksonville has tremendous potential,” said Wendland. “I’ve said that for a long time … I’m convinced Jacksonville can compete with any city or country in the world.”
When he resigned in 2004 to head to the private sector, he had overseen the creation of new economic development polices during a time of transition.
Times have changed, though, since his last run at City Hall. That was the late 1990s and early 2000s, a time when the economy was booming. He realizes that change in dynamics, but said he’s up to the task and is ready to help move the city forward.
To that end, it’ll require coordination among different groups that handle economic development. The mayor’s office, which he said has a “great team in place.” City Council, which ultimately has the final say on deals. And JAXUSA Partnership, the economic development arm of the JAX Chamber, and its president, Jerry Mallot.
Mallot called Wendland’s selection “an outstanding choice.” The two have a great working relationship, he said, and Wendland’s experience in both the public and private sectors is valuable.
“He’s a great analytical mind and very solution-oriented,” said Mallot. “We’ve worked on lots of different projects … that have been very successful.”
Wendland said it was too early to say what direction he’d like to take the office in and wanted to consult with Curry and other higher-ups before deciding. But, part of what will make the city successful will be communicating with those who aren’t in the area.
“Maybe Jacksonville hasn’t been as well known,” he said. “I don’t think there is a negative perception, but maybe an unknown perception. We just have to sell our story.”
Wendland will make $150,000 in the role. He begins Aug. 17.
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