Robert Fine’s 17 years as head of the Regional District of Central Okanagan’s Economic Development Commission (RDCO) has come to an end, but he doesn’t get very far.
Fine recently accepted a new position with the City of Kelowna, replacing Jim Paterson as Director of Business and Entrepreneurial Development. Paterson will retire on December 23, and Fine’s role will take effect on March 2, 2015.
“The city is delighted to welcome Robert to our team,” says Mayor Colin Basran. “Robert has a proven track record of building strong relationships to promote business opportunities that improve our community and the surrounding area.”
Fine will be a link between the city of Kelowna and the business community, and he will also look for innovative ways the growing city can generate income other than taxes and usage fees to offset the cost of more services and amenities.
Regional Executive Director Gail Given said, “We are saddened that Robert is leaving the EDC, but we are delighted that he will continue to work in Central Okanagan and we definitely congratulate him on this new opportunity with the city and wish him all the best. We are confident that the close cooperation that Robert has built up between the Economic Development Commission and the city will continue. “
(Photo credit: City of Kelowna)
Given added, “During his 17 years at the helm of EDC, Robert has demonstrated outstanding leadership and innovation. The Commission and its programs have won numerous awards for economic development not only in British Columbia but also nationally and internationally for programs such as the Business Walks, Work Where You Play and The Okanagan Opportunity – 100 Reasons to Do Business in Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley. “
RDCO will begin the search for a new Economic Development Commission in the coming weeks and months.
Robert Fine Photo Credit: Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission
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