City Manager appoints Larry Burkhardt, who comes with extensive background
City Manager John Shirey has appointed Larry Burkhardt as the Director of the Department of Economic Development. Larry is currently the Executive Vice President of the public/private Fox Cities Regional Partnership in eastern Wisconsin. He will begin at the City on August 17.
“At a time when the City is resetting its economic identity, I sought a candidate who could help take Sacramento to the next level,” Shirey said. “He’ll be leading our organization at a time when Sacramento is on the precipice of experiencing new economic growth opportunities.”
Mr. Burkhardt was chosen in 2012 to launch a multi-county economic development organization focused on industry retention/expansion and industry attraction to the largely manufacturing base of the Fox River cities, which are about 30 miles southwest of Green Bay. In his role, Burkhardt has been instrumental in launching and leading the organization toward building working relationships between private and public sectors, leading efforts to assist local employers and recruit/retain local talent.
He’ll be leading our organization at a time when Sacramento is on the precipice of experiencing new economic growth opportunities.” – John Shirey
His experience spans more than 20 years and includes leadership of the Upstate Colorado Economic Development, and the first President/CEO of the Nevada County (California) Economic Resource Council. The latter made him familiar with Sacramento and the region.
Mr. Burkhardt was recognized by consulting agency Consultant Connect as one of the top 50 economic developers in North America for excellent practices, innovation and success in building the communities he serves. He has held elected office and served in numerous appointed positions on local, regional and national boards. He has published more than 100 articles on economic development strategies and is widely sought out as a guest lecturer.
“With a commitment to shaping itself as a world-class community, the leadership of the City of Sacramento and surrounding region has embarked on an aggressive path of improvement. The alignment of vision, leadership and resources has launched an extensive transformation that promises to enhance the quality of life for residents of the area,” Burkhardt said.
I am eager to engage in that process, working as a partner to expand opportunity and prosperity for the citizens of Sacramento and the region.” – Burkhardt