Jon Stephens, who is the founder of a Kansas City executive consulting firm, has been named the interim economic development director for the Unified Government.
According to a news release today, Stephens is joining the UG Economic Development Department after George Brajkovic left to become city manager of Tonganoxie.
Stephens is familiar with local businesses after having previously served as the interim executive director of the Kansas City, Kansas, Area Chamber of Commerce. He also served as interim president and CEO of Visit KC in Kansas City, Missouri.
He is the founder of Rockhill Strategic, with many years of experience in marketing, consulting and advertising. He is also a past president and a past director of marketing and public relations for the Kansas City Power and Light District with the Cordish Company.
“I’m very excited, there’s so much momentum, so much going on in KCK,” Stephens said. “I’m excited to return and work with the UG and work with citizens and business. “It’s an exciting time with development going on all over Kansas City, Kansas.”
Stephens specializes in executive change management, among other fields.
“With recent staff turnover, the timing was right to bring in a talented professional that understands the private sector development world, and Jon is a perfect fit,” County Administrator Doug Bach said in a news release. “He can provide strong leadership for my Economic Development Department now and great assistance and perspective to my management team. I am excited to bring him on board.”
Stephens is expected to begin his work as interim economic development director on April 13, and is expected to serve six months while there is a search for a new director of economic development.