Braun names new leader of Indiana EDC

INDIANAPOLIS — The office of Indiana Gov. Mike Braun announced that Braun has appointed a new president of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

According to a news release from Braun’s office, Josh Richardson was appointed as the Indiana EDC’s president effective Tuesday.

This comes after the Indiana EDC recently released the findings of an audit. According to previous reports, the audit revealed unreported conflicts of interest in business dealings involving the IEDC, as well as reported excessive spending on VIP travel. The audit also called for more oversight at the Indiana EDC.

“Josh brings a rare combination of economic insight and workforce experience,” Braun said. “He understands that growth starts with people—and that the best way to strengthen Indiana’s economy is to make sure our employers, universities and regional leaders are all moving in the same direction. I have full confidence in his ability to continue driving the state’s momentum and to create lasting opportunity for Hoosiers.”

Richardson most recently served as the commissioner of the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. Mike Smith, the previous chief financial officer of the DWD, will assume the role of interim commissioner.

In the new role, Richardson is expected to oversee Indiana’s efforts to “strengthen workforce alignment” as well as support the attraction of new businesses and the growth of existing employers.

“Indiana’s success has always come from its regions—from leaders who know their communities best and who build growth from the ground up,” Indiana Secretary of Commerce David J. Adams said. “Josh understands the direct connection between talent and industry growth better than anyone. His leadership will ensure that the IEDC continues to support region-led partnerships that grow wages, strengthen productivity and attract people and investment to Indiana.”

For more information about the Indiana EDC, click here.