McLaren Leaves Chesterfield

It is with mixed emotions that we announce the resignation of Gary R. McLaren, Director of Economic Development, who has left Chesterfield County to serve the Commonwealth of Virginia as Director of Business Development of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP).

Gary was hired as Director of Economic Development in 1988. Prior to that, he was the Director of the City of Chesapeake Dept. of Economic Development.

During his 11 years of service, he developed a strong and nationally-recognized program that is regarded by both peers and consultants as one of the top economic development organizations in the country. Gary’s leadership provided for the creation of more than 9,000 new jobs and investments of nearly $1 billion in new revenue which has resulted in Chesterfield consistently ranking in the Top 10 communities in the state in new jobs and investment.

Gary and the office of Economic Development, recognizing the importance of existing industry to the county’s economic prosperity, initiated a very successful Existing Industry Program. This innovative program was recently awarded the NACO Achievement Award.

As Director of Economic Development, he worked closely with developers, land owners and other county departments and was instrumental in initiating infrastructure improvements and rezoning of properties to better position Chesterfield of significant future development.

We wish Gary success with his new position, but will greatly miss his vision and leadership here in Chesterfield County.