The Golden Triangle Development LINK on Tuesday announced a new hire and two internal promotions aimed at strengthening the organization’s efforts in economic development as well as business retention and expansion.
Brent Lochala has been hired as director of business retention and expansion, according to a LINK press release issued Tuesday. In the role, he will work closely with existing industries in the region to support business growth, expansion opportunities, workforce development initiatives and long-term business success.
Lochala brings with him nearly 30 years of experience with 4-County Electric Power Association, including the last 13 spent as a key accounts executive serving commercial and industrial customers. He has helped local industries secure incentives and grants for expansion, energy efficiency upgrades, capital investments and job creation.
“I am excited to continue working with the industries that have helped shape the Golden Triangle into the thriving region it is today,” Lochala said in the press release. “Our existing industries have invested in our communities for years by providing quality jobs, supporting local governments through taxes, and giving back through sponsorships of youth sports, schools, and community events. A strong industrial base not only benefits our region today but also serves as one of our greatest assets in attracting future investment and new projects.”
Among two internal promotions announced Tuesday, Leah Upton, who joined the LINK in 2022 as director of finance, has been promoted to chief operating officer. In the new role, Upton will oversee day-to-day operations at the LINK while continuing to manage the organization’s financial responsibilities and taking on the role of administrator for Lowndes County Industrial Development Authority.
Elizabeth Templeton, who joined the LINK in 2023 as project manager, has been promoted to director of economic development, a role in which she will lead the LINK’s industrial recruitment effort while continuing to oversee requests for information, demographic and infrastructure research and grant support for economic development projects.
“We are proud to welcome Brent to the LINK team and to recognize Leah and Elizabeth for their outstanding leadership and dedication to our organization,” LINK President and CEO Meryl Fisackerly said in the press release. “These changes position us well to continue serving existing industries, recruiting new investment, and supporting the long term economic success of the Golden Triangle.”
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 24 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 24 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
