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Peterborough Economic Development Announces New President & CEO

By Kelly Jessup

Peterborough Economic Development’s Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Rhonda Keenan will be joining Peterborough Economic Development as President & CEO. She will begin at PED on February 29.

Over the past 12 years, Ms. Keenan has held positions within the City of Oshawa’s Economic Development Services branch – most recently as Acting Director. Her accomplishments include completing land acquisitions to advance what is now the General Motors Centre in Downtown Oshawa. She also led the attraction of key investments and opportunities to the City of Oshawa, including Fresh Del Monte – Del Monte’s first Canadian operation and Spark Centre, the Regional Innovation Centre (RIC) for Durham and Northumberland, and secured commitment to create a 90 seat incubator for small, technology-based start-ups.

Importantly, Ms. Keenan brings with her a collaborative approach to developing partnerships and working with a variety of community stakeholders in the City of Oshawa and Durham Region. “We wanted to ensure the new CEO had the dynamism to liaise with the various players that make up our region’s diverse and vibrant economy,” said Peter Gaffney, Peterborough Economic Development’s Board Chair. “Rhonda brings a level of experience with business development and relationship building that is very important to how we lead regional economic development.”
Ms. Keenan is excited for the opportunity that awaits her in the Peterborough Region, “I look forward to starting in this new role and working with the team and community stakeholders.” stated Ms. Keenan, “This is a great opportunity in a great community – I am eager to continue the work that Peterborough Economic Development is doing to transform the region into a high-performing sustainable economy.”

The hire of Rhonda Keenan follows a strategic review where Peterborough Economic Development Board of Directors’ Selection committee, worked closely with the City and the County of Peterborough to align the President & CEO qualities and skillsets with the priorities of the region. This was followed by a thorough formal search where applications were received from interested and qualified professionals across the country.