TEDC names new president and CEO
The Taylor Economic Development Corporation has named Ben White as the new president and CEO of the organization.
White, who has been the director of economic development for Cedar Park for the past five years, will begin his new duties with TEDC in mid-November. Mark Thomas, who has served as TEDC President and CEO since 2016, announced in September that he will retire at the end of this month.
BEN WHITE
White is a seasoned economic development professional with more than 23 years of experience. He was designated a Power Player by the Austin Business Journal in 2023, being counted among those who “wield utmost influence” in the greater Austin area by the publication.
Prior to joining the city of Cedar Park, White held similar positions in Round Rock, Rowlett and Greenville. He is currently president of the Williamson County Economic Development Partnership. Under his leadership, Cedar Park received the Texas Economic Development Community Economic Excellence Award each year since 2019, and the IEDC Silver Award, Economic Development Organization of the Year in 2023.
White is a graduate of the University of Kansas, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration.
“(White) has a record of proven success in Central Texas,” TEDC Board Chair Betty Day said. “We look forward to building on the incredible growth that is happening in Taylor. Ben brings all the skills needed to ensure we continue positive development going forward.”
White believes that economic development starts with a strong business retention and expansion program, and building a strong department that can react and respond to the needs of local businesses and prospects looking to relocate. He enjoys working with the community, elected officials, city staff and regional partners to help grow the tax base and create quality jobs.
“I am thrilled, honored and thankful to be joining the Taylor team,” White said. “What Taylor accomplished with the landing of Samsung was amazing. I look forward to building on this tremendous success and helping Taylor create a thriving and diverse economy.”
Mayor Brandt Rydell, who worked closely with the TEDC in negotiations with Samsung, says he is also pleased with the selection of White.
“With Samsung’s massive investment in our community, I don’t believe there is any place that has as much potential from an economic development standpoint as Taylor,” Rydell said. “And I’m convinced that there is no one better suited to help Taylor realize its full potential in that regard than Ben White. I could not be more excited about Ben joining our efforts here in Taylor.”
Taylor EDC is a Type A, 4A nonprofit corporation founded by the Taylor voters in 1994. The organization is funded by 0.5% of the annual sales tax from the city of Taylor and is a separate entity with a separate staff and budget. To learn more about TEDC and how the organization works with businesses seeking to locate in Taylor, visit https:// tayloredc. com/.
