Delaware County Commissioners have staked on a new start with the hiring of Chadwick "Chad" Smith as the new Economic Development Administrator, a move signaling an intention to bolster their play in the global market. With a career spanning across state departments and a stint in international diplomacy, Smith brings a seasoned mix of local and international experience to the table. In a recent update, Delaware County officials expressed optimism about Smith's ability to navigate the intricate webs of trade and industry on an increasingly interconnected global stage.
Having earned his stripes as an economic officer in the Bureau of Energy Resources, Smith's seven-year tour with the U.S. Department of State was preceded by influential positions in the Ohio Air Quality Development Authority and the Ohio Department of Development. According to Delaware County's announcement, Smith, a U.S Navy veteran, returns to Central Ohio after these roles, bringing with him an enhanced understanding of East Asia's markets - a region of increasing importance to Delaware County's strategy.
Smith's résumé teems with accolades and academic prowess. The Ohio State University can boast of this alumnus twice over, conferring upon him a bachelor's degree in international studies and an M.B.A. Smith has also attained international recognition with a master's degree in international relations from the International University of Japan. "While Chad’s roots in Central Ohio are obviously a big plus, his broad range of experience with global markets, particularly in East Asia, enhances the strength of Delaware County’s position as we continue to compete for new business partners," Tracie Davies, Delaware County Administrator, noted.
The journey that led Smith back home saw him managing Asian market strategies for the Ohio Department of Development and steering the Ohio Coal Development Office. Overseas, his diverse roles touched on energy, economics, and diplomatic arenas with positions including a Vice Consul in Cambodia and a Political Officer in Australia. "We are very excited to welcome Chad to our team," County Commissioner Barb Lewis, president of this year's board, told Delaware County in regard to Smith's hiring, viewed as commensurate with the county's burgeoning global profile.
