Ohio economic development director tapped to head the Naperville Development Partnership

Monica Conners has been named the new president of the Naperville Development Partnership, the public/private economic development organization that promotes the city’s business interests.

She will assume the position on May 6, succeeding Christine Jeffries, who announced late last year that she planned to retire after 26 years as head of the partnership.

Conners, who has a certified economic development designation, most recently worked as the director of economic development in Delaware County, Ohio, according to a news release on her appointment.

Her career has included various positions in Virginia and Missouri before working for a Fortune 500 utility in an economic development position, the release said.

“The Naperville Development Partnership is at a pivotal point in its journey toward fostering economic growth and prosperity in our community,” partnership board Chair Mark Wright in a statement.

“Monica’s visionary leadership and extensive experience in economic development make her the ideal person to lead our organization. We are excited to welcome her to our team and look forward to the dynamic and transformative initiatives she will bring to Naperville.”

As president, Conners’ responsibilities will include overseeing the development and implementation of comprehensive economic strategies for the city and managing the Naperville Convention and Visitors Bureau and Dine Naperville, according to the release.

“She will work closely with local businesses, government entities and community leaders to promote sustainable economic growth, job creation and investment in Naperville,” the release said.

Naperville Mayor Scott Wehrli said he was “thrilled to have a seasoned economic development professional with a true passion for business attraction and retention join the Naperville Development Partnership.”