Apr. 17—Haywood County Economic Development Director David Francis, who has been a top official in county government for more than 25 years, is leaving the county — but not going far.
It was announced Wednesday that Francis will become the new president of the Haywood County Chamber of Commerce, succeeding CeCe Hipps, who has led the organization for the past 20 years.
Francis has worked closely with the chamber of commerce and the county's business leaders for years in his economic development role with county government. While Francis admits he has much yet to learn about the inner Chamber workings, he said his background will allow him to continue his work in Haywood promoting the local economy, business and industry.
"With the mill closure, we've become a small business community," he said. "We don't have that cornerstone we had before. I've been working on macro side, and now I'll be working on micro side growing businesses in our county."
The chamber conducted a four-month nationwide search, said Laura Tragesser, financial sales manager at First Citizens Bank and chairperson of the Chamber.
"The ideal candidate was found in Haywood County," she said. "We had applicants from all over the country. After interviewing several candidates, we knew that David's years of experience within Haywood County government and his deep understanding of regional economic development would be keys to long-term success."
Francis has been a key player for Haywood in navigating the post-Tropical Storm flooding of 2021 that devastated the east end of the county and wiped out most town facilities in Canton.
He was also steeped in local support and recovery efforts after Pactiv Evergreen closed its Canton paper mill less than two years after the flood.
"This is a good lateral move knowing the county as I do," Francis said. "It's a continuum of what I've been doing. The chamber is also at the forefront of economic development. I'm excited still get to still work with the county and municipalities."
The Chamber news release announcing his appointment said Francis has an impressive background in both the private and public sectors. He not only brings a a wealth of knowledge in economic development and public policy, but has extensive experience in business development and a commitment to growth and prosperity in the region, Tragesser said, making him the "ideal candidate to lead the Chamber into the future."
Francis said he was excited about his new position and honored to have been chosen.