River Ridge Development Authority executive director stepping down

River Ridge Development Authority executive director stepping down

  • 17.03.2025 23:35
  • bizjournals.com
  • Keywords: Marc Hildenbrand Named Successor, River Ridge Development Authority

Jerry Acy is retiring from his role as executive director of the River Ridge Development Authority on June 30, 2025, with Marc Hildenbrand set to succeed him. Under Acy's leadership, the authority has grown into a major economic hub, contributing $3 billion annually and employing over 12,000 people across 80 companies. His retirement marks a significant chapter as River Ridge continues to drive economic growth in Southern Indiana under new leadership.

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Estimated market influence

River Ridge Development Authority

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Analyst rating: N/A

The organization has grown into a significant economic force under Jerry Acy's leadership.

Policy Analytics LLC

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Conducted an economic impact analysis of River Ridge Development Authority.

One Southern Indiana

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Lance Allison from One Southern Indiana praised Jerry Acy's work in attracting major employers to the region.

Context

Analysis of River Ridge Development Authority Leadership Transition

Key Facts

  • Jerry Acy Retirement: Retiring on June 30, 2025 after a successful tenure as executive director of the River Ridge Development Authority (RRDA).
  • Marc Hildenbrand Appointment: Named successor and will assume leadership on July 1, 2024.
  • Economic Impact: Under Acy's leadership:
    • Annual output: $3 billion
    • Employment: Over 12,000 people across 80 companies
    • Annual wages contribution: $900 million
    • State tax revenue: $40 million annually
    • Local taxes: $9.1 million annually
  • Leadership Praise: Treva Hodges, RRDA board chair and mayor of Charlestown, Indiana, highlighted Acy's role in making River Ridge one of the nation's premier business parks. Hildenbrand was noted for his readiness to lead, with expertise in staff management, infrastructure, and company recruitment.
  • Attraction of Major Employers: Acy played a pivotal role in attracting companies like Canadian Solar, America Place, CTDI, and The Cheesecake Factory to the region.

Business Insights

  • Growth Metrics: RRDA has grown into a significant economic force, generating $3 billion annually and employing over 12,000 people across 80 companies. This underscores its importance as a driver of regional economic growth.
  • Leadership Transition Impact: The departure of Acy, a key figure in the authority's success, could create both challenges and opportunities for maintaining momentum. Hildenbrand's experience in staff management, infrastructure, and recruitment positions him well to continue this trajectory.

Market Implications

  • Economic Contribution: RRDA contributes $900 million in wages annually, generating significant tax revenues ($40 million state, $9.1 million local) that support regional development initiatives.
  • Competitive Positioning: River Ridge's status as one of the nation's premier business parks positions it as a key player in attracting investment and talent to Southern Indiana. The transition to Hildenbrand is expected to maintain this competitive edge.

Competitive Dynamics

  • Leadership Strengths: Hildenbrand's expertise in staff management, infrastructure, and recruitment aligns with the needs of a growing business park. His ability to attract and retain companies will be critical to maintaining River Ridge's competitive position.
  • Strategic Focus Areas: The authority is likely to continue focusing on economic development, infrastructure investment, and corporate recruitment under Hildenbrand's leadership.

Long-Term Effects

  • Sustainability of Growth: The transition signals the need for strategic planning to ensure sustained growth and innovation in the region. Acy's legacy will serve as a foundation for future leaders to build upon.
  • Potential Expansion: With its current trajectory, River Ridge may explore further expansion opportunities, potentially enhancing its economic impact on Southern Indiana.

Regulatory Considerations

  • Impact of Tax Revenues: The authority's contribution to state and local taxes highlights the importance of regulatory frameworks that support economic development while ensuring public benefit.

This analysis underscores the significance of leadership transitions in shaping the trajectory of economic development authorities like RRDA, with implications for regional growth, employment, and investment attraction.