BROOKINGS — The Brookings Economic Development Corp. has welcomed Victoria Blatchford as its interim director.
A longtime BEDC board member and advocate for economic growth, Blatchford …
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BROOKINGS — The Brookings Economic Development Corp. has welcomed Victoria Blatchford as its interim director.
A longtime BEDC board member and advocate for economic growth, Blatchford brings experience in business development and a passion for helping the Brookings community thrive.
Most recently, Blatchford served as senior vice president at HME Companies, where she led the expansion of HME Care Services to set up operations of two different divisions, Peaceful Pines Senior Living across South Dakota and Turning Point Behavioral Health in Madison. Blatchford led the launch and opening of five newly constructed senior living communities, and developed centralized operations, policy, and procedures to support the fast company and workforce growth. The final senior living community opened in Brookings this past fall.
Prior to HME, Blatchford retired from her almost 29-year bank leadership career with Wells Fargo, 12 years of which she served as market president in Brookings and six years as vice president and relationship manager for local government banking. In these roles, she gained professional experience in public and private business deal structures and operations and enhanced her community leadership skills. Along with a substantial career, Blatchford raised a family in Brookings, contributing to her deep passion for the community’s success.
“We couldn’t ask for a better person to step in as interim director,” said Justin Gray, president of the BEDC board. “Victoria knows this community well and has spent years helping businesses succeed. She’s the right leader to keep our momentum going.”
In addition to her professional career, Blatchford has a long history of community involvement.
“I’ve always believed in the power of strong communities, and I’m honored to take on this role,” said Blatchford. “Brookings has so much talent and potential, and I’m excited to work with businesses, entrepreneurs, and community partners to keep building on our success.”
As interim director, Blatchford will oversee BEDC’s ongoing efforts in business retention, recruitment, entrepreneurship support, and workforce development. She will work closely with the BEDC team to ensure continuity and strong community partnerships while advancing economic growth in the Brookings area.
For more information about BEDC and its initiatives, visit www.brookingsedc.com.