Mayor Nominates Tim Cooley as Economic Development Director

Mayor Dave Cieslewicz today named Tim Cooley as the City's Economic Development Director. A graduate of the UW, Cooley returns to Madison after serving in business consulting and several economic development initiatives in California. "Tim's experience and vision in economic development initiatives will be a key asset for the City," Mayor Dave Cieslewicz said. "In the new year, economic development will continue to be a crucial focus for the City. Tim will be an outstanding leader of those efforts." "Madison has tremendous opportunities in its rich, diversified neighborhoods, culture, existing industry clusters and supporting assets," Cooley said. "Everyone I've spoken with understands the importance of maintaining a strong economic base, and I'm looking forward to working with Mayor Cieslewicz, the Common Council, the Economic Development Commission and business community to optimize the competitiveness of the City as a place positioned for healthy and sustainable growth." "As a native Madisonian, Tim Cooley's background and expertise greatly impressed me, and I have faith that he will be great leader for economic development in Madison," Mark Bugher, Director of University Research Park said. Cooley brings a wealth of experience in successful implementation of growth plans for high-profile companies and organizations. As Executive Vice President of H2Squared in Irvine, California, Cooley worked with corporate boards, universities and public institutions on issues related to strategy, management, market relations and economic development. Cooley also worked as the Managing Director for Global Financial Group, Executive Vice President for Strategic Initiatives at the Orange County Business Council and Director of Strategic Planning Ernst & Young Market Performance Group. Pending confirmation by the Common Council, Cooley will start February 16.