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411 West First Street • Duluth, Minnesota 55802 • www.duluthmn.gov
SUBJECT: Brian Hanson selected as Business and Community Development Director
BY: Pakou Ly
Brian Hanson selected as Business and Community
Development Director
Mayor Don Ness has selected Brian Hanson as Director of the Business and Community Development Department to head the City’s economic development efforts. Mr. Hanson will also oversee the City’s community and workforce development divisions and coordinate activities with DEDA and the various economic development organizations in the region.
“We are excited to have Brian join our team. Brian brings credibility, experience and skills that will help the City move forward as it explores and undertakes economic and community development opportunities,” says Mayor Don Ness.
Mr. Hanson has 20 years experience in business and economic development and finance in both the private and government sectors. Mr. Hanson oversaw development projects in northeast Minnesota for ALLETE/Minnesota Power and the Iron Range Resources Agency. Mr. Hanson has extensive expertise in business prospect development, market research, site visits and prospect relations. He has also assisted several regional businesses in accomplishing important growth initiatives.
“I am very excited to join Mayor Ness and City staff in serving the citizens of Duluth. I am looking forward to taking a hands-on role to address barriers to growth and unlock the potential in our community. Development is a team effort, and I will be working with my fellow employees and our local and regional partners to ensure a sustainable, prosperous future for our citizens,” says Mr. Hanson.
Mr. Hanson stays connected to the community by serving as the Treasurer of the Duluth Economic Development Authority, the Treasurer of the Northspan Group, and as a Board member of Junior Achievement of the Northland. Brian graduated from the Leadership Duluth program in 2004. He and his wife have two children and they enjoy the outdoors, sporting events, cooking, and travel.
Mr. Hanson’s name will be submitted to the Duluth City Council for approval in the form of a resolution at the January 11, 2010 Council Meeting. Upon approval, Mr. Hanson will start the job on January 19, 2010.
