New Executive Director – Jeff Landin

The Portage County Business Council would like to announce the hiring of Jeff Landin as its new executive director. Landin replaces Brian Doudna, who resigned last May. Landin will begin work at the Portage County Business Council on October 18, 2004.

“We are extremely pleased that Jeff has agreed to lead the Portage County Business Council,” said Dennis Peterson, President of the Portage County Business Council Board of Directors. “Jeff’s previous experience will serve us well, particularly in the areas of economic development and business retention. His strong leadership skills will also prove valuable as we seek to grow the organization as well as the influence it can have on supporting our business members, on growing new business and on developing a strong and sustainable workforce.” Landin’s most recent position was as the Director of Administration for Brown County where he oversaw the development of its $230 million budget and was responsible for 37 employees. Prior to the Brown County position, Landin was Waukesha County’s Chief of Staff.

Meg Erler, who led the Search and Screen Committee charged with finding the new executive director, indicated Landin not only brings a strong background that will benefit Portage County, but also received strong support from a wide range of community leaders. “It was our goal to make sure the Portage County community had an opportunity to express their views on what qualities were most important in an executive director. We are most pleased by the positive feedback Jeff received and by the willingness of the various constituencies to help in this selection process,” Erler said.

The Portage County Business Council represents over 500 Portage County businesses. It is the recognized leader in strengthening Portage County’s quality of life by promoting a business climate that encourages growth and stability.sin 2003 Agricultural Statistics)