Fort Bend County Judge KP George announced that Carlos Guzman has joined the County as the Director of Economic Opportunity & Development. His first day on the job was Tuesday, October 4.

Joined by Fort Bend County Com- missioner, Precinct 2 Grady Prestage, Senior Vice President and Chief Economic Development Officer of the Greater Houston Partnership Susan Davenport, Fort Bend County Human Resources Director Nicole Ledet, Charles (Chuck) Martinez President and CEO at Katy Area EDC, and Vanessa Wheeless of the Katy Area EDC, Judge George touted Guzman's experience and emphasized the expectations of his new role.

“Carlos has an understanding of the economic development opportunities and challenges facing Fort Bend County, he can advise our team on emerging and existing economic development issues, work with the Economic Development Council and city Economic Development Departments, support policy, and reach out to diverse businesses,” stated Judge KP George.

As the Director of Economic Opportunity & Development, Guzman will oversee the County’s efforts to promote economic development by setting strategic goals for economic growth and prosperity, targeting diverse industries, and working with existing industries and regional partners to strengthen the County’s economy. Guzman has over 16 years of economic development experience working in local and regional organizations throughout Texas, having worked for the City of Dallas and The Greater Houston Partnership. Prior to his role with the County, he served as the Executive Director of the Pasadena Economic Development Corporation. Under his leadership, Pasadena EDC launched numerous successful initiatives.

Carlos holds degrees from George- town University (DC) and George Mason University (VA). He holds certifications as a Certified Econom- ic Developer (CEcD) and Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP). He is a native Spanish speaker and is fluent in Portuguese.

For more information, visit FortBendCountyTX.Gov.