Hite named to economic development role

FINDLAY — Findlay-Hancock County Economic Development has named Katie Hite its new associate director of economic development and investor relations. Hite was selected for the role through a search opened in May, after Chris Keller resigned as executive director in April. Matt Gilroy, former director of strategic initiatives, became executive director in May. Hite will begin her role on Aug. 3. "We are excited to welcome Katie to our team and look forward to the experience, leadership, and community relationships she will bring to our organization," Gilroy said. "Katie has extensive experience collaborating with members and investors in her roles in various nonprofit organizations. She will add value to our investors by building relationships quickly to support economic development efforts locally. She also brings with her a wealth of knowledge about career and workforce development." Hite most recently served as assistant director for the Ohio Association for Career and Technical Education, a professional association promoting career-technical education via advocacy, public policy, professional development and partnerships. Before joining Ohio ACTE, Hite served as partnership coordinator for career readiness education at Stride K12, where she built partnerships between education and industry to expand career-connected learning opportunities. Hite is vice president of the Hope House Board of Directors and serves as a member of the Findlay City Schools Board of Education. She is a graduate of the University of Findlay and Findlay High School and lives in the Findlay community with her husband, Ryan, and their two children. "While I may not have carried the title of 'economic developer' before, I've spent my career helping people discover opportunities, strengthening talent pipelines, and building partnerships that benefit communities," Hite said. "To me, that's what economic development is all about. I'm excited to continue that work in Findlay-Hancock County by helping connect businesses, education, and community partners in ways that create opportunities for individuals, strengthen our workforce, and contribute to the long-term success of our region."