Ohio Economic Development Association Executive and Leadership Team

David Zak, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Ohio Economic Development Association, directs the organization's strategic vision and operational execution. Zak spearheads initiatives aimed at fostering growth and opportunity for Ohio residents, aligning with the association's core mission. This leadership role involves guiding the association's engagement with its 1,029 members across all 88 counties, ensuring robust professional development, networking, and advocacy support. David Zak oversees the delivery of critical programs, including the Ohio Economic Development Institute, which provides state-specific courses for the Ohio Certified Economic Development credential. Zak's strategic direction ensures OEDA remains a vital resource, connecting members with legislators and providing timely updates on economic development issues, thereby enhancing the collective impact of economic developers throughout Ohio.

Susan Yutzey, the Immediate President 2015 at Ohio Economic Development Association, provides crucial historical leadership perspective and continuity. Yutzey's role ensures the preservation of institutional knowledge and the consistent application of established best practices in economic development. This position involves advising current leadership on strategic initiatives, drawing from extensive experience within the association and the broader economic development landscape of Ohio. Susan Yutzey contributes to the ongoing refinement of professional development programs and advocacy efforts, reinforcing OEDA's commitment to fostering growth and opportunity for Ohio residents. The guidance provided by Yutzey supports the association's mission to serve its 1,029 members across all 88 counties, maintaining a strong connection between past achievements and future objectives.

James Nicholson, the President at Ohio Economic Development Association, drives forward the organization's strategic objectives and operational priorities. Nicholson leads efforts to advance economic development practices, directly contributing to growth and opportunity for Ohio residents. This executive function involves overseeing key initiatives that support OEDA's 1,029 members across all 88 counties, ensuring the delivery of essential professional development, networking opportunities, and advocacy support. James Nicholson plays a pivotal part in strengthening the association's role as a vital resource, facilitating connections with legislators and disseminating timely information on economic development matters. Nicholson's leadership ensures the continued effectiveness of programs like the Ohio Economic Development Institute, promoting the Ohio Certified Economic Development credential.

Jeffrey McCuen, the President, Member, , Education Committee Chair at Ohio Economic Development Association, directs critical educational programming and contributes to overall organizational strategy. McCuen spearheads the development and execution of state-specific courses, ensuring the Ohio Certified Economic Development credential remains a benchmark for professional excellence. This leadership capacity involves guiding the Education Committee to enhance learning opportunities for OEDA's 1,029 members, fostering their growth and effectiveness in advancing economic development across Ohio's 88 counties. Jeffrey McCuen's dual role as President and Committee Chair ensures a direct link between educational strategy and the association's broader mission of fostering opportunity. McCuen actively contributes to networking and advocacy efforts, reinforcing OEDA's position as a key resource for economic developers and legislators.