Alex Crowley has been named the new director of economic and sustainable development for Bloomington, Mayor John Hamilton announced Tuesday.
Crowley will replace Interim Director Linda Williamson beginning Aug. 29.
Most recently, Crowley was the founder and managing director of Excello
Solutions, a consulting business. Prior to this he served as vice president of business operations for Insight Communications.
These job experiences are part of what made Crowley an attractive candidate for the director position, Deputy Mayor Mick Renneisen said.
“Having worked closely with many types of businesses in his consulting and corporate roles, he brings an understanding of what businesses need to be successful,” Hamilton said. “I look forward to him applying that knowledge to benefit Bloomington’s economy.”
One of Crowley’s duties as director will be attracting new businesses to Bloomington.
Bloomington attracts businesses with an international focus due to IU, Renneisen said. Crowley has traveled extensively as a part of his previous position at Ogilvy & Mather, a marketing and advertising firm in New York City.
Crowley’s international work experience will be an asset to the community, Renneisen said.
Crowley will also be working on developing the 12-acre Bloomington Technology Park.
Renneisen said the city purchased the land to redevelop for start-up businesses; however, not much progress has been made yet.
“Alex will be charged with taking it from a bunch of grass with nothing on it to a full blown tech park,” Renneisen said.
There are 65 acres at the Bloomington Technology Park, Renneisen said. However, what happens with the core 12 acres will dictate development of the rest of the space.
Renneisen said Crowley is a bright guy with excellent business background and international exposure. Crowley said he recognizes the opportunity the city has with the tech park and the city is lucky to have him.
“His enthusiasm, approach and background are something special,” Renneisen said. “He’s very passionate about wanting to make a difference in his community.”
