Ben Warner, president and CEO of Jacksonville Community Council Inc. since 2011, resigned effective May 1 after his wife accepted a promotion that will take the couple to Naples, Italy.
Warner served the organization for 17 years.
During his tenure, JCCI enhanced its ability to influence community change in Jacksonville and abroad.
One of the major projects during his term as president was JAX2025, a community-visioning effort for Jacksonville that attracted more than 16,000 participants.
Warner made the organization’s interaction with the Jacksonville community a priority, according to a news release. In addition, he leveraged the knowledge and experience in many aspects of community engagement by serving communities across the country through JCCI Consulting Services.
“I am very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with talented JCCI staff, volunteers, and people of Jacksonville as they continue to come together to create community change and realize the JAX2025 vision,” Warner said in a news release.
Jim Stevenson, chair of the organization, praised Warner’s leadership and vision. He said an interim director will be named to serve during the search for a new top executive.
Mayor Alvin Brown said in a statement that Warner made the community a better place to live and enhanced the work of the organization.
“He has always been dedicated to making Jacksonville the best community it can be, and I’m grateful for what he has done,” Brown said.