- November 25, 2024
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CLEARWATER — Cynthia Johnson has been named director of Pinellas County Economic Development, the first woman and the first African American to hold the position.
Johnson, who got the job after a national search, is a familiar face at county offices and boardrooms. She joined the department 20 years ago and most recently worked as director of small business and supplier diversity. In that role, she increased local vendor participation and redesigned the Small Business Enterprise Program, according to the county.
She’s also served as director of the Florida Small Business Development Office for Pinellas since 2010, overseeing programs aimed at retention, increased capital investment and expansion and diversification opportunities.
A department spokeswoman says there was a national recruitment effort after the department's previous director, Mike Meidel, retired in April. After the initial interviews, the finalists were chosen and met with the county’s Economic Development Council and members of the staff. The final candidates were then interviewed by a committee of county business and community leaders, who shared their input with county administrator Barry A. Burton.
Burton made the final decision.
In a statement, Burton calls Johnson a leader who will help to “continue to expand our economic development presence.”
“Cynthia’s extensive experience, passion for public service and success at strengthening relationships in our community are proven assets to our economic development department,” he says.
Johnson started Tuesday, Sept. 7, taking over for Meidel who held the position since 2004.
She earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership and a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University.
In the statement, Johnson says that she wants to “advance our global competitiveness by continuing to grow a strong and diverse economy, talented workforce and resilient communities.”
The department spokeswoman did not release Johnson’s salary or age.
