Evansville Regional Economic Partnership names CEO

EVANSVILLE, Ind. (Inside INdiana Business) — The Evansville Regional Economic Partnership has selected Tara Barney as its chief executive officer. Barney had previously served as co-CEO of the organization, which was formed earlier this year through a merger of three regional groups, along with Greg Wathen, who will continue as president.

The Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana, the Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville, and the Southwest Indiana Chamber joined forces in April to create the combined organization. Barney previously served as president and CEO of the Chamber, while Wathen led the EDC of Southwest Indiana.

“Timing couldn’t be better as the region moves into a new stage of growth in the dynamic global marketplace,” said Jim Ryan, chair of E-REP. “The Executive Committee and I are confident in Tara’s tremendous leadership experience, particularly in managing a combined economic and chamber organization, as well as a keen understanding of today’s workforce needs. Combine that with Greg’s rich background in economic development, and our community is well positioned for growth.”

E-REP says Barney will lead the organization’s more than 1,200 members while partnering with the public and private sector “to provide a more unified voice and resources to advance the region’s top priorities.” In his new role, Wathen will be responsible for driving critical economic development work in the region.