Maple Ridge has a new economic development manager, the city announced Thursday.
Lino Siracusa starts the job in September, after previously working at Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.
Before CMHC, Lino was the economic development manager for the City of Richmond. During his employment there, the city consistently attracted more jobs than the regional average, said a release from the City of Maple Ridge.
“There’s enormous potential for expansion in our retail, service and industrial sectors and the added benefit is that Maple Ridge has a diverse and skilled workforce who are anxious to work close to home,” said Mayor Nicole Read.
Siracusa brings experience in economic development, real estate and property management, finance and place making to Maple Ridge, said Frances King, director of human resources.
“He brings a tremendous wealth of experience to our community and we are looking forward to his energy and passion as we execute our council’s vision around economic development.”
Siracusa holds an MBA and BA in urban economic geography. He is a director of the Italian Chamber of Commerce Western Canada.
He replaces Sandy Blue who was fired last February. Blue is now an Abbotsford city councillor.
As Maple Ridge’s manager of strategic economic initiatives, Blue made $107,676 in 2013.