The Lake County Indiana Economic Alliance is ready to hire its next leader.

The economic development organization has been led by Donald Babcock after the passing of Karen Lauerman. She died in November 2022.

Babcock was the director of economic development for the Northern Indiana Public Service Co. until he retired in 2020. He also was a part-time director of economic development and community relations for Purdue University Northwest Chancellor Thomas Keon, who retired earlier this year.

The LCEA's new president and CEO will work with the board of directors to expand business opportunities in Lake County.

The LCEA coordinates economic development in Lake County between local and county officials and business leaders. Its goal is to create jobs and promote growth in the county.

The organization also launched a new investment campaign in February to raise funds for more investment in Lake County. Paul Beneturski, chairman of the board, said in a press release that several current investors already have raised their contribution levels.

The LCEA also is hosting a conversation about the proposed Lake County convention center from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. June 20. It promises to bring business and community leaders together to discuss the project. Tickets cost $50 each. Learn more here.

The LCEA was established in 2013 to help Lake County's business community expand and to attract new companies.

Beneturski is taking resumes for the leadership position by emailing paul@lcea.us.