BAY CITY, MI – Bay Future, a leading countywide economic development organization dedicated to retaining businesses, attractions, and fostering expansion across Bay County, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Mark Hitchcock as its new Economic Development Manager. This strategic hire marks a significant step in Bay Future’s mission to bolster the region’s economic vitality and ensure continued prosperity for the community. The appointment was officially announced Monday, May 12th, in a news release detailing Hitchcock’s role and vision for the organization. "I am incredibly excited to contribute to the sustained economic growth of Bay County by directly supporting businesses as they strive to expand and flourish," stated Mark Hitchcock in a prepared statement. "My primary objective is to cultivate an environment that empowers both established and emerging companies to succeed, ultimately driving sustainable job creation and facilitating long-term community development. I believe in a collaborative approach, working closely with stakeholders to address their unique needs and challenges."

Hitchcock’s responsibilities will center around collaborating closely with Bay Future President and CEO Jim Reaume to effectively market the organization’s services and elevate awareness of its diverse initiatives. Furthermore, he will provide crucial assistance to companies seeking to expand their operations and develop new ventures, while also fostering strong partnerships with local communities to support existing Bay County businesses. Jim Reaume emphasized Hitchcock’s valuable skillset, noting, "Mark brings together a powerful combination of technical expertise, operational leadership, and a deeply ingrained understanding of the Bay County region. His specialized skills in operations and business process improvement, coupled with his familiarity with our local landscape, uniquely position him to address the evolving demands of our business community. His homegrown perspective and demonstrated commitment to this region are precisely what we need to drive strategic growth and retain valuable talent here."

Hitchcock’s background is exceptionally well-suited to this role, boasting extensive experience in executive leadership, client-facing customer service, and economic development. Prior to joining Bay Future, Hitchcock held key positions with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Beacon Literacy, and the Pulse3 Foundation, demonstrating a commitment to impactful community engagement. Adding to his qualifications, Hitchcock is a decorated U.S. Army combat veteran, showcasing resilience, leadership, and a dedication to service. He holds both a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Northwood University, further solidifying his expertise. This combination of experience, education, and personal qualities makes Mark Hitchcock an ideal candidate to lead Bay Future’s efforts in driving economic growth and fostering a thriving business environment within Bay County. The organization looks forward to his leadership and the positive impact he will undoubtedly have on the region. Bay Future is committed to providing the resources and support necessary for businesses to succeed, contributing to a vibrant and prosperous future for the entire Bay County community. We believe that strategic economic development is essential for creating opportunities and ensuring a bright future for all residents."

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