About
The Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County is a team of engaged public and private leaders committed to being the catalyst for a sustainable, globally competitive, vibrant economy.
A Catalyst for Economic Possibilities
We connect entrepreneurs, business leaders and major corporations to new and existing development opportunities. Whether it’s for expanding an existing enterprise or relocating a business to Sarasota County, we can help.
Vision
To be the organization that is the catalyst for creating a vibrant economy that is sustainable and competitive globally.
Mission
To grow, diversify and sustain the economy of Sarasota County while enhancing our unique natural and cultural environment.
Principles
Innovation
The EDC embraces innovative thinking and processes within the organization and supports innovations in the business community.
Accountability
The EDC is responsible to its stakeholders, maintains commitments and is an excellent steward of resources.
Collaboration
The EDC fosters and promotes partnerships within the community to meet the common good.
Regionalism
The EDC recognizes the strengths and successes achieved in working together regionally.
Stewardship
The EDC promotes stewardship of the area’s natural and cultural environment in balance with a sustainable growing economy.
Leadership
The EDC provides direction and leadership in matters that affect the community’s economy.
Board of Directors
Charlie Murphy
Chair
Executive Vice President/Market President, The Bank of Tampa
Joe C. Hembree
Vice Chair
Vice President, Hembree & Associates Inc.
Rob Lane
Treasurer
Managing Shareholder, Kerkering, Barberio & Co.
Erin Cigich
Secretary
CEO, Perform[cb]
Art Lambert
Past Chair
President & CEO, S-One Holdings Corp.
Brent Boydston
At Large Member
SVP, Corporate Sales & Innovation, PGT Innovations
Kirk Boylston
At-Large Member
President, Lakewood Ranch Commercial Realty
Dan DeLeo
At-Large Member
Partner, Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP
Devaney Iglesias
At-Large Member
West Coast Area Manager – External Affairs, Florida Power & Light Company
Larry Fineberg
At-Large Member
ED, Industrial Office Warehouse, Benderson Development Company, LLC
Mark Irwin
At-Large Member
Market President, BB&T, now Truist
Shaun P. Merriman
At-Large Member
Regional President – West Florida, SouthState Bank
Scott Sensenbrenner
At-Large Member
Chief Executive Officer, Enzymedica
Drayton Saunders
At-Large Member
President, Michael Saunders & Company
Byron Shinn
At-Large Member
Partner-In-Charge, Carr, Riggs & Ingram
Heather Williams
At-Large Member
Shareholder, Kerkering Barberio & Co.
Bill Woodson, PhD
At-Large Member
Dean of Outreach, Office of Outreach and Inclusive Excellence, New College of Florida
Vice Mayor Erik Arroyo
Commissioner
City of Sarasota
Mayor Ron Feinsod
Mayor
City of Venice
Penelope “Penny” Gold
Commissioner
The Town of Longboat Key
Mayor Jill Luke
Mayor
City of North Port
Commission Chair Alan Maio
Commission Chair
Sarasota County
Zachary Buffington, Esq.
Board Counsel
Partner, Williams Parker Harrison Dietz & Getzen
“As Sarasota County’s largest employer, we are proud to support the EDC and serve as an economic engine for the region.”
– David Verinder, CEO, Sarasota Memorial Health Care System
EDC Team
Lisa Krouse
President & CEO
(941) 309-1200 x100
Erin Silk
Vice President, Business Development Services
(941) 309-1200 ext. 105
Liliana Zindler
Assistant to the President
(941) 309-1200 ext. 103
Kate Atkin
Director, Investor Engagement
(941) 309-1200 ext. 102
Janis Lawson
Executive Assistant, Business Development Services
(941) 309-1200 ext. 106
Invest in Sarasota County
The EDC of Sarasota County diversifies our local economy and helps create jobs for Floridians. Investing in the EDC empowers us to grow our economy and attract more business to our region.
Chairman’s Advisors
