Robert Fine was named the new director of Business and Entrepreneurial Development.
Image Credit: investkelowna.com
December 16, 2014 - 4:25 PM
KELOWNA – After almost 20 years on the Central Okanagan’s Regional District Economic Development Commission, Robert Fine is making a change.
According to a release sent out by the City of Kelowna, Fine will take over for outgoing director of Business and Entrepreneurial Development, Jim Paterson, who retires at the end of this year.
The job entails acting as liaison between the City and business community as well as looking for innovative ways to help the city generate revenue outside of taxation. He will also be tasked with helping find ways to offset costs for services and amenities as Kelowna grows.
“The City is really excited to welcome Robert to our team,” says Mayor Colin Basran. “Robert has a demonstrated track record of building strong relationships to advance business opportunities that enhance our community and surrounding area.”
Regional Board Chair Gail Given says over his 17 years on the job, the commission and its programs have been recognized with numerous economic development awards for programs like ‘Business Walks,’ ‘Work Where You Play’ and ‘The Okanagan Opportunity – 100 Reasons to do Business in Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley.’”
“We’re sad that Robert will be leaving the EDC but pleased he’ll still be working in the Central Okanagan and we certainly congratulate him on this new opportunity with the City and wish him well,” Given says. “We’re confident that the close working relationship Robert developed between the Economic Development Commission and the City will continue.”
The new Economic Development Commissioner has not yet been named.
To contact the reporter for this story, email Adam Proskiw at aproskiw@infotelnews.ca or call 250-718-0428. To contact the editor, email mjones@infotelnews.ca or call 250-718-2724.
News from © iNFOnews, 2014