A worldwide search for a new executive director for the Sunflower County Economic Development office has culminated in Moorhead. On Monday during a closed executive session with the Sunflower County Board of Supervisors, members of the Sunflower County Economic Development District presented former U.S. Army Colonel Frederick Lewis Washington as the prime candidate for the position.
“It’s interesting that you wind up with somebody right here seven miles away from this courthouse when you’ve interviewed people from around the country,” said Walton Gresham, district chairman.
The county lawmakers had tasked and authorized the trustees of the SCEDD to conduct a nationwide search after the current Economic Development Director Steve Shurden announced his intent to retire effective January 1, 2019.
Board Attorney Johnny McWilliams said, “They looked all over the nation and we found exactly what we needed right in Moorhead. He said Washington’s effective start date is Jan. 1. “We’re very pleased to have him on board,” McWilliams added.
Washington’s resume boasts more than 30 years of experience in strategic planning and operations, public affairs and marketing in addition to nation-building and government transformation.
He has reportedly led and directed numerous nation-building efforts to improve economic development and social equity in foreign countries. Locally, his resume touts his success at establishing and marketing his family ventures in the construction, demolition and transportation industries.
His military experiences are vast and include knowledge of biometrics and forensics, personnel management including training and recruitment, risk assessment and budgeting.
Among other certifications and designations, Washington holds a Master of Science degree in National Resource Strategies, a Master of Military Science designation from the U.S. Army Command & General Staff College, plus certifications in Criminal Justice Education and asbestos handling.
A reception for retiring Sunflower County Economic Development Director Steve Shurden will be held Dec. 12 from 4-6 p.m. at Planters Bank on Catchings Ave.
