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Now Hiring: Director of Marketing and Special Projects

GOEDC is seeking a creative, detail-oriented Director of Marketing and Special Projects to lead storytelling and brand efforts that promote Owensboro/Daviess County as a premier destination for business investment, workforce talent, and community growth.

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Smothers Park
Smothers Park

Our Team

Claude Bacon President/CEO

cbacon@owensboro.com
270-926-4339

Claude Bacon serves as President and CEO. Prior to joining GOEDC in 2023, he spent more than 15 years with LinGate Hospitality in Owensboro, where he held the role of Vice President of Administration, Sales, Marketing, and E-Commerce. His career also includes leadership and professional roles at Western Kentucky University, Kentucky Wesleyan College, and Lindsey Wilson University.

Claude earned both his bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Marketing and his master’s degree in Communications from Western Kentucky University. He currently serves as Board Chair of the Kentucky Travel Industry Association (KTIA) and as a board member for Visit Owensboro. In addition to his professional work, Claude is a two-time Ironman triathlete, ultramarathoner, and a “What’s Your Ironman?” motivational speaker.

Claude and his wife, Samantha, have two daughters, Hadley and Maggie.

Brad Davis Vice President of Business Development

bdavis@owensboro.com
270-926-4339

Brad Davis, a native of Daviess County, serves as the Vice President of Business Development at the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation. Prior to his time at the EDC, Brad served as the Vice President of Operations at the Murray Calloway Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC). He has been involved in all aspects of the economic development process, including working with prospects, developing product, and managing projects.

Prior to working in Murray, he spent 28 years at the Purchase Area Development District, as the Director of Community and Economic Development. At the ADD, he worked with local economic development groups, elected officials, chambers of commerce, and state and federal funding agencies.

As Vice President of Business Development, Brad will be primarily responsible for building and launching our entrepreneurship efforts and reactivating the Emerging Ventures Seed Fund. Brad is very excited about returning to Owensboro and working with such a great team. He hopes to help strengthen the entrepreneurial program and improve business development in the community.