Shannon Ogletree Selected as one of the Top Leaders in Economic Development

Santa Rosa County Economic Development Director Shannon Ogletree has been recognized as one of North America’s top 50 economic developers for 2018 by Consultant Connect, a consulting agency designed to bridge the gap between economic developers and site consultants. The economic development professionals selected were nominated by colleagues in the economic development industry and site consultant community for excellent practices, innovation and success in building the communities they serve.

Ogletree, who has worked in economic development on the gulf coast since 2000 and as the director for the Santa Rosa County Economic Development Office since 2013, will receive his award at Consultant Connect’s ECONOMIX event in Nashville this December.

"Experience has taught me that growing a successful local economy is driven by investing in the businesses you have, engaging the community and developing industry diversity," said Ogletree. "It's an honor to be selected as one of this year's top 50 leaders in the industry and I look forward to engaging with the top location consultants across the nation next month to further market the county and bring high-paying jobs to our residents."

Ogletree earned his masters of business administration from University of West Florida and has completed training with the International Economic Development Council to become a certified economic developer. He has worked with a wide range of industries, from aviation/defense companies and internet security to renewable energy manufacturing and call centers.

“This annual list of North America’s top 50 economic developers is designed to acknowledge the hard work of the top leaders in this field and elevate the conversation around economic development and job creation,” said Ron Kitchens, managing partner of Consultant Connect. “Each of the leaders represented on this year’s list are beyond deserving of this recognition for their efforts in building our communities.”