Choose DuPage names new president

Choose DuPage, the driving force for economic development in DuPage County, selected John Carpenter as the new president and CEO.

Carpenter, who will take over Monday, most recently served as senior vice president of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, where he was responsible for public policy initiatives, legislative affairs, and the execution of the strategic vision of the Chambers' Board of Directors. Carpenter will lead Choose DuPage in its mission to establish DuPage County as a premier global business location.

"John's extensive experience in government relations and corporate affairs makes him well suited for this position," said Robert Hutchinson, private sector co-chair, Choose DuPage board of directors.

Carpenter takes the place of Greg Bedalov, who left economic development organization in June to take a position as executive director for the Illinois tollway authority.

DuPage County Board Chairman Dan Cronin commented, "Choose DuPage has made tremendous strides in the last several years. It is a prime example of a public-private partnership that works, engaging large and small employers to enrich DuPage's business landscape, while attracting and growing new business. I know under John's leadership our economic development efforts will continue to flourish."

Prior to joining the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, Carpenter served as the vice president of corporate affairs for American Airlines. He is a graduate of Loyola University Chicago. He has served as an employer representative on the Illinois' Workers Compensation Commission Advisory Board.

"DuPage County has the second largest population in the state of Illinois, but is second to none in energy and innovation. I believe DuPage provides a business-friendly climate and an excellent quality of life, resulting in an educated, stable workforce. I'm looking forward to expanding on Choose DuPage's successful initiatives including Rev 3, the business incubator fostering entrepreneurship in our area. And I believe our regional collaborations will grow jobs, benefiting the entire Chicagoland area. Choose DuPage serves as a model for the rest of Illinois. I'm pleased and proud to lead this transformational effort," Carpenter said.