John Talmage
Director
Economic Development Lee County
- John is the director of the Lee County Economic Development Office (EDO).
- With more than 20 years of experience in city government and economic development, he has developed a national reputation as a leader in innovative practices by pairing better information with capital development to create new approaches for economic development in underserved communities across the country.
- John served as CEO of Social Compact, a research organization serving the federal regulatory community, cities around the country, and community development organizations.
- John served as the deputy director for economic development in New Orleans, focusing on business development issues, including workforce development, international trade, and business recruitment and retention.
- Before his tenure in New Orleans, John worked in New York City, addressing economic development, housing, and land-use matters for communities throughout North Brooklyn.
- John has served on many national boards and committees leading to opportunities to testify before Congress, working with the Federal Regulatory community, and joining mayors and community leaders throughout the nation in addressing the needs of underserved urban America.
- John holds a BA in political science from Columbia University.
