SHREVEPORT, La. – North Louisiana Economic Partnership (NLEP) is excited to announce the appointment of Dean Baugh as the new Director of Existing Industry.

Dean brings with him a strong background in economic development, business expansion, and workforce training. He is well-equipped to drive NLEP’s efforts in supporting and expanding the existing industry base in NLEP’s target industries.

Dean’s impressive career includes his most recent role as Director of Business Development at Louisiana Economic Development, where he served 27 parishes and played a crucial role in business retention and expansion. His previous experience includes significant contributions at Graphic Packaging International and Louisiana Delta Community College, where he demonstrated his expertise in workforce training and development.

“I am excited and thankful to join the NLEP team, knowing that I will be able to assist in creating unique solutions to the challenging problems that existing businesses within northwest Louisiana are facing. While I have been involved in economic/workforce development and training for a number of years, I look forward to assisting NLEP in providing tools for companies to locate, remain, and grow in our 11-parish region,” says Baugh.

Justyn Dixon, President and CEO of NLEP, expressed his enthusiasm about the creation of this new position and the expertise Baugh will contribute to NLEP’s already strong team: “Dean’s extensive background and proven track record in economic development make him an invaluable addition to our team. The existing companies we work with are critical for the health of our regional economy and Dean’s leadership and experience will greatly enhance our efforts to support these companies in their continued growth.”

Angie White, COO of NLEP, also shared her excitement: “Dean and I have worked together for many years across partner organizations with a common goal to bridge gaps between what new and existing companies need in their workforce and the skills possessed by our regional talent pool, and I am so pleased to have him become part of the NLEP team. We will make great strides in ramping up support of our economic driver companies.”

Dean’s educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in general studies with a Political Science concentration from the University of Louisiana at Monroe and various professional development courses in economic development and community leadership. His commitment to ongoing learning and professional growth is evident in his pursuit of certifications such as Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) and Professional Community and Economic Developer (PCED) at CDI Central in Louisiana, hosted by the Bossier Chamber of Commerce.

With the creation of this new position dedicated to supporting existing businesses in NLEP’s target industries, and the selection of Baugh to lead it, NLEP is primed to elevate its mission of being a catalyst and connector advancing economic growth in the region. The creation of this new position is supported by a generous grant from the Community Foundation of North Louisiana, and for this NLEP’s leadership expresses its gratitude.

About North Louisiana Economic Partnership

North Louisiana Economic Partnership, an Accredited Economic Development Organization, provides professional economic development services to an 11-parish region of North Louisiana, including lead generation and prospect management. Its mission is to be a catalyst and connector advancing economic growth in the region. Visit nlep.org for more information.