Leader of Local Economic Development Group to Retire, Successor Named

John Bush
Dayton Business Journal

PREBLE COUNTY, Ohio (Dayton Business Journal) – The leader of one of the Dayton area’s largest economic development groups is retiring. A successor already has been named.

Brenda Latanza, director of the Preble County Development Partnership (PCDP), has announced her retirement effective July 1. Latanza has led Preble County’s development efforts, including retention and expansion of existing businesses, business recruitment, workforce development, regional and national marketing, and community development activities since February 2015.

At its board of directors meeting this week, the Preble County Development Partnership approved the hiring of Justin Sommer as the organization’s new director. Sommer, a longtime public and private development leader, says he looks forward to building off the success of Latanza and the partnership team.

Latanza’s accomplishments include assisting with the expansions of several large companies such as Henny Penny, Pratt Industries, Neaton, Cargill, TimkenSteel and others. Recently, Latanza led efforts to land the $390 million Royal Canin pet nutrition manufacturing facility in Lewisburg. With a focus on providing service to existing employers, Preble County has seen significant capital investment and an increase in job creation over her tenure.

“The PCDP has grown and evolved with the leadership provided by director, Brenda Latanza,” PCDP Board Member Amy Leedy said. “Her unique skill set has expanded the opportunities for Preble County employers and residents. Brenda’s ability to be transparent and inclusive while maintaining confidentiality with businesses has resulted in retaining employers and attracting new employers to the county. It has been gratifying to be a part of the partnership under Brenda’s guidance. Brenda’s unassuming style has helped others recognize Preble as a unique place to live and work.”

Sommer has over 15 years of experience in development, serving in roles at both the state and local levels, as well as in private development. He has served on the PCDP board for the past two years, and also currently serves on the Edison State Community College Foundation Board of Directors. Sommer is a past president of the Ohio Economic Development Association. He has been employed as vice president of business development for Bruns General Contracting for the past four years.

“She has performed beyond expectations and has redefined economic development to make for a better Preble County, while placing the county on the map as it relates to workforce development, business creation and retention efforts, but most importantly following the mission statement of the Preble County Development Partnership,” Sewert said.

He added that hiring Sommer will allow Preble County to “not skip a beat” in moving economic development initiatives forward.

“I have had the opportunity to work with Mr. Sommer in the past, and he brings a strong work ethic, professionalism and passion for economic development,” Sewert said. “Preble County Development Partnership is so fortunate to have Mr. Sommer as the next economic development director for Preble County.”