June 21. Ryan McDaniels is out as the head of the Lake Norman Economic Development Corp. (LNEDC) after 11 years at the helm of the regional business retention and recruitment organization.

He could not be reached for comment.

Ryan McDaniels

Meanwhile, the LNEDC will undertake a “strategic reevaluation” under the direction of its board which includes elected officials and staff from the towns of Cornelius, Davidson and Huntersville which fund it.

Change in direction

One of them said the temporary pause on some operations will result in a “change of direction.”

The LNEDC recently organized a non-profit expo, “Connecting Our Communities” to foster collaboration and engagement between local non-profits, businesses and community members.

Economic development corporations typically promote and facilitate economic development within a specific geographical area.

The organizations are complementary to chambers of commerce. In fact, the LNEDC originally came out of the Lake Norman Chamber more than 20 years ago.

Staff status

Elizabeth Underwood, LNEDC workforce development manager, is taking a new job heading up the Stanly County EDC.

Jaime Lane, LNEDC community relations manager, will continue to oversee the county-funded PIVOT internship program, which connects high school students with internship opportunities.

Meanwhile the LNEDC executive committee “comprehensively reimagine the organization’s direction and future programs” during the strategic pause.