PORTAGE — Heather Ennis, Northwest Indiana Forum (Forum) President and CEO, announced that Joe Rurode will be the new NWI Forum Director of Economic Development for the regional economic development organization. Rurode replaces Matt Saltanovitz, who has taken on the role of Regional Director of Northwest Indiana for the State of Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC).
“It is with great excitement, we welcome Joe to the team.” says Ennis. “His business acumen and knowledge of the area will help accelerate the positive momentum already happening in the region.”
In his role as Director of Economic Development, Joe will spearhead project management for economic development efforts in the seven counties of Northwest Indiana by working business prospects and regional development partners.
Previously, Rurode served as Economic Development Director for the Town of Burns Harbor, where he oversaw economic and community development initiatives. A graduate of Indiana University, Bloomington, Joe, brings over fifteen years of corporate experience to the Northwest Indiana Forum. He has guided national business development for organizations spanning from global or start-up.
“After working across the United States for several years, I wanted to return home to raise my family in Northwest Indiana,” said Rurode. “I’m proud to be a part of this organization that is striving to make our region a better place for my children and the generations to follow.”
