Salem has a new Economic Development Director.
Leah Dellicarpini who came to Salem in January of last year to purchase and operate Chico’s Restaurant was selected for the position by City Manager Rex Barbee.
“We had seven candidates that provided references and resumes. Some of them had specific economic development experience in some other communities. Leah is a very sharp individual with a Master’s Degree in Business and I think she is willing to learn so I am anticipating that we will be better to have her attend additional training items and get her on the right path the right rather than depending on someone else doing it the way they were doing ten years ago and not really looking to grow the community the way we want.”
Dellicarpini is looking forward to starting the position on Monday, April 3rd.
“The main objectives for the role is to attract and retain businesses. I’m excited to see Salem grow. Being newer to town, I hear alot about the glory days in the past tense. And I’d love to think there are gloria days in the future. I’m excited to be a part of that.”
Dellicarpini will work with current Economic Development Director Tabitha Meador until June 1st when Meador moves into the role as City Clerk and Assistant to the City Manager. Meador is replacing Bev Quinn who is retiring.
Dellicarpini says some of the staff at Chico’s want to grow that will move into management to run the restaurant. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Global Economics and International Business from Cedarville University in Cedarville, Ohio and a Masters Degree in business administration from Florida International University in Miami, Florida.
Dellicarpini formerly worked for Charter Schools USA where she developed her skills in executive leadership, process improvement, budget management, strategic and resource planning, business transformation, and organizational design.
