The Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Ryan McCrady has been selected as the company’s President & Chief Executive Officer. He will begin his new role with the local economic development organization in early May 2020.
McCrady is a former local resident and leader who is probably best remembered for administering the day-to-day activities of County Government as the Sangamon County Administrator from 2003 – 2008.
McCrady returns to Springfield & Sangamon County from the Economic Development Corporation of Decatur & Macon County where he has served as CEO since January 2015. As the top economic development leader for the City and County, McCrady focused on business recruitment and retention, administered the Decatur/Macon County Enterprise Zone, the local Foreign Trade Zone and was responsible for oversight of the Midwest Inland Port, LLC., which is owned and operated by the EDC.
“We are very excited to announce Ryan McCrady as our new President & Chief Executive Officer,” said Dan Dungan, Board Chair of the Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance. “Many of our board members are already familiar with the success Ryan has demonstrated in both Sangamon County and Decatur /Macon County. We have confidence that he can successfully implement our mission to enhance economic prosperity and growth for Springfield and Sangamon County.”
Before McCrady was named President & CEO of the EDC for Decatur & Macon County, he was the Decatur, Illinois City Manager for 6 years. He was statutorily responsible for all aspects of city operations including public safety, water management, public works, economic development, general services, human services and financial management. He managed a $130 million annual budget and supervised two Assistant City Managers, the City Treasurer, Police Chief, Fire Chief and 500 additional employees.
McCrady is a native of Divernon, Illinois and an alumnus of Lincoln Land Community College. He has a Bachelor’s degree in finance from Illinois State University and a MBA from the University of Illinois to be awarded at commencement ceremonies in May.