Redefining recruiter duties the right move
The position of industrial recruiter for Warren County has changed in more ways than one.
For starters, the industrial recruiter, when hired, will be called director of economic development. More importantly, the position is being redefined so the person reports only to the Industrial Development Board and doesn’t have to worry about Chamber of Commerce responsibilities.
This is the right move to make. While under the previous system, the industrial recruiter was supposed to devote 80 percent of his time to industrial recruitment. The other 20 percent was intended for Chamber purposes.
Warren County needs a person entirely and whole-heartedly devoted to promoting industrial recruitment. Sure, 20 percent might not seem like an overwhelming amount of time, but every little bit helps.
Considering Warren County hasn’t landed a major employer since Bridgestone some 12 years ago, it’s not like the county is tinkering with success. In fact you could say the process here has fallen into a state of much-needed repair.
It’s also a smart decision to have the industrial recruiter examine other ways to produce local jobs. Bringing in big factories isn’t the only way to provide employment. The goal is to improve the overall economy, not just recruit more industry.
While this reshaping is taking place, members of the Industrial Development Board should also clearly spell out any and all responsibilities this new person will have. Prepare a definite job description for whoever is hired.
When it comes to finding new jobs for Warren County citizens, a shakeup in the system brings with it the promise of better results. We don’t need to go another 12 years without finding a substantial employer to locate here.