RTP Foundation’s Weddle recruited to Orlando economic development post

The Research Triangle Park Foundation‘s top executive, Rick Weddle, is leaving to lead an economic development group in Orlando, Florida.

The Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission on Tuesday announced that Weddle, president and CEO of the RTP Foundation, will be the Florida group’s new president and CEO. The RTP Foundation is the organization that manages and markets North Carolina’s Research Triangle Park, home to numerous pharmaceutical and technology companies. Weddle has led the RTP Foundation since 2004. During Weddle’s tenure, RTP has attracted development projects representing projections of more than $800 million in capital investment and 5,500 new jobs. Before coming to the Research Triangle, he was the president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council in Phoenix, Arizona.

Weddle has a long track record in economic development circles. He is vice president of the International Association of Science Parks and was elected president of the association’s North American division in 2007. He has also been active in the International Economic Development Council.

“What Rick brings to Metro Orlando is a long track record of success in job creation, extensive experience in national and international economic development, and extensive experience in the business of science and technology parks,” David Pace, EDC board chairman said in a prepared statement. “He is the absolute right person to lead economic development in a community such as ours, which is ripe with potential and poised for growth.”

Weddle’s Orlando start date is March 14.