Post updated at 1:53 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 25:
The City of Lawrence on Tuesday announced Susie Carson as the new director of economic development.
Carson has more than 15 years of experience with economic development and chamber leadership roles, according to a city news release.
“Her work has consistently focused on aligning business priorities with long-term community goals and strengthening relationships across sectors to promote sustainable growth,” according to the release.
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Carson was most recently the vice president of Membership & Sponsorship Investments at the Olathe Chamber of Commerce, according to the release. She worked with the City of Olathe on business expansion efforts, where she discussed investments and initiatives with stakeholders. Prior to that, she worked on small business development, entrepreneurship and downtown revitalization as the executive director of the El Dorado Chamber of Commerce.
She is currently near completion of Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) credential as she works toward her Master of Public Administration at Wichita State University.
“Susie brings a collaborative approach, deep experience, and a strong commitment to community-centered economic development,” Assistant City Manager Brandon McGuire said in the release. “We are excited to welcome her to Lawrence and look forward to the leadership she will bring as we continue building a strong, resilient local economy.”
Carson will begin in her role on Jan. 5.
The city’s two economic development positions have been empty since former analyst Samuel Camp left his position in June 2024 and longtime former department director Britt Crum-Cano retired in September 2024, according to city records.
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