Shreveport – Monroe, LA — North Louisiana Economic Partnership (NLEP) announces Sheena Black as its new Vice President of Business Development. Black will lead the NLEP Business Development program responsible for recruiting new companies to North Louisiana’s 14 parishes. She started at NLEP on February 18, 2016.
“I’m thrilled to join such a dynamic organization that is implementing its strategic vision and actively attracting investment to the region. By focusing on specific niches, we hope to locate high growth companies by highlighting North Louisiana’s competitive advantages and ultimately increase the number of jobs available within our region,” said Black.
Black has extensive experience in economic development, international relations and public policy. She previously led a division within the Guam Economic Development Authority, where she supervised four analysts and worked to support international investors establishing businesses in the U.S. territory. In that role, she received the Governor’s Award for effectively advocating the region’s interests on a U.S. Presidential task force and at international development organizations.
Black’s experience extends into the private sector. She managed Department of Defense contracts valued at $21 million while working as a consultant with Deloitte Consulting and was instrumental in a business development initiative that secured a $200 million government contract. Black received a corporate award for exceptional performance on a marketing campaign dedicated to Green Computing and IP Convergence and was subsequently sent to Yale University’s School of Business Management to complete an advanced consulting skills program. Black has directly supported high level dignitaries on commercial diplomacy campaigns, including the Republic of Palau’s Ambassador to the United Nations, the U.S. Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and the Governor of Guam.
“I am proud to have Sheena Black join NLEP’s talented team. Her impressive experience managing business development programs, working with site selectors, and leading international business initiatives will bring a new level of expertise and knowledge to our organization,” said Scott Martinez, CEcD, NLEP President.
Black earned a Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University and a Bachelor of Arts from University of California, Santa Barbara. She has completed numerous fellowships and programs offered by prestigious organizations, such as the East West Center, Institute for International Public Policy, Center for Strategic International Studies Pacific Forum, Aspen Institute, and Asia Foundation.
About North Louisiana Economic Partnership
North Louisiana Economic Partnership, an Accredited Economic Development Organization, provides professional economic development services to the 14 parish region of North Louisiana, including lead generation and prospect management. The organization also represents the interests of North Louisiana with a unified voice and as a single point of contact. It acts as a catalyst, a convener, and a connector in the region to ensure that North Louisiana’s economic development potential is realized. Its vision is for North Louisiana to be a thriving region-a destination for high quality talent, innovative companies, and global investment.