Frederick County Board of Supervisors Announces New Strategic Direction for the Economic Development Authority, Upcoming Executive Director Search, and Leadership Transition
The Frederick County Board of Supervisors has approved a Board-directed strategic realignment of the Frederick County Economic Development Authority (EDA), establishing a renewed focus on economic competitiveness, business support, and long-term community vitality. The updated direction will guide the EDA’s efforts across priority areas including site readiness, business development, and workforce development.
As part of this realignment, the County will soon launch a national search for a new Executive Director to lead the EDA through its next phase of organizational growth and strategic implementation.
The County also announced that Wendy May, CEcD, who is currently serving as Interim Director of the EDA, will become Frederick County’s Communications Director, leading the development of a new Communications Department. This office will serve as a centralized resource for countywide communications and public engagement, advancing transparency, fostering community trust, and supporting Frederick County’s mission to be an engaged, innovative, and business‑friendly community.
Wendy May is a Frederick County native and Certified Economic Developer with 22 years of experience in economic development, marketing, and communications in the Winchester–Frederick County region. She holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Management from Shenandoah University, along with professional credentials from the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute and George Mason University. She is a member of the International Economic Development Council, serves as Vice Chair of the Communications Committee for the Virginia Economic Developers Association, and is a graduate of the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber’s Community Leadership Program.
Quote from County Administration:
“Wendy has provided exceptional leadership to the EDA during a critical time,” said Mike Bollhoefer, County Administrator. “Her professionalism, strategic insight, and dedication to the Frederick County business community have positioned the EDA well for its next chapter. We are equally confident she will bring that same commitment and vision to building the County’s new Communications Department.”
Quote from Wendy May:
“It has been an honor to serve Frederick County and its business community throughout my economic development career, and in the role of Interim Executive Director,” said Wendy May. “I am grateful for the opportunity to support the EDA during this period of change, and I look forward to contributing to the County in a new way. In establishing the Communications Department, I hope to bring creativity, collaboration, and enthusiasm to a function that strengthens transparency and deepens engagement with our residents, businesses, and community partners.”
Additional information regarding the Executive Director search and updates on the implementation of the EDA’s Board-directed strategy will be shared as details are finalized.
About Frederick County, Virginia
Frederick County VA, nestled at the Top of Virginia, is an active and growing community close to nation’s capital, Washington, DC, and approximately 50 miles from Dulles International Airport. Frederick County is steeped in history, agriculture, and small-town quaintness while providing easy access to North/South and East/West travel corridors.
Frederick County is recognized as one of the most prosperous economies in the Commonwealth, landing within the top 15% of Virginia localities over the past decade for new capital investment and job growth.
Part of the Winchester Metropolitan Statistical Area, Frederick County has been recognized multiple times by Forbes as one of its Best Small Places for Business and Careers and one of the Best Places to Retire. Of the top 100 counties in Virginia, Frederick County falls in the top quarter, ranking 25th for Median Household Income.
About the Frederick County Economic Development Authority
The Frederick County Economic Development Authority (EDA) partners with business, community organizations, and government leadership to strengthen the County’s economic foundation. The EDA focuses on business support, site readiness, and workforce development initiatives that enhance economic competitiveness and drive sustainable growth.
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