Elaine Bedel Appointed as Secretary & CEO of New IDDC
Bedel Financial's founder, Elaine Bedel, will be stepping away from her role as the President of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation to lead the Indiana Destination Development Corporation.
Gov. Eric Holcomb announced Thursday morning that Elaine has accepted the role of secretary and CEO of this newly created, quasi-governmental tourism agency.
"Elaine will excel as Indiana's first chief destination officer to bring our public and private sectors together to best tell Indiana's story," said Governor Holcomb.
Holcomb stated that in her new role, Elaine will work collaboratively to develop marketing strategies that will enhance economic development, attract new talent to our workforce and enhance our state's profile as a great destination for visitors.
The state passed legislation during the 2019 session that allowed the Indiana Office of Tourism Development, under Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, to become a quasi-governmental corporation as of July 1, 2020. The move will allow the new agency to raise private money in addition to receiving state dollars—similar to the way the IEDC currently operates.
Elaine will leave her role at the IEDC on Nov. 11 to begin planning for the new agency. Holcomb appointed Bedel to serve as president of the IEDC in January 2017. Secretary of Commerce Jim Schellinger will assume Bedel's responsibilities at the IEDC.
"Elaine's bold leadership and extensive experience as the owner of her own financial consulting company will be great assets to promote Indiana's positive business climate and jobs magnet reputation,"
-Governor Holcomb