Diversity is the key to Chatham-Kent’s economic success. 
That from Michael Burton, who will be taking on the title of Director of Investment Attraction and Government Affairs in September.
Burton, the municipality’s current Director of Economic Development, says he has a lot on the go already.
“Some of these files represent significant new areas for us to attract investment,” Burton says. “A lot of it is going to be agriculture-related, a lot of it is going to be completely new areas where we haven’t had activity and businesses in Chatham-Kent in the past.
Former Wallaceburg business owner Stuart McFadden assumes the role of acting Director of Economic Development, and says he wants to focus on helping smaller businesses succeed.
“I would rather have 10 companies with 10 employees for 100 people than one with 100 to be very very honest,” McFadden explains. “When that one with 100 goes down, it has a real effect on the community. I’m a small business guy, and a lot of our concentration is going to be on supporting the existing companies, helping them continue to grow.”
McFadden says the changes to the department will allow Burton to focus on attraction of new investments while he supports existing business.