Lee Anne Nance, the chief operating officer of the Research Triangle Regional Partnership, is leaving to start her own company.
It’s the second big departure from the economic development group’s leadership in recent months. Long-time CEO Charles Hayes has retired.
Nance had been considered a candidate for the CEO job.
A spokesperson for the partnership said the CEO search is “ongoing.”
Nance’s departure also could hit the development of a new strategic plan for the RTRP.
Asked if the plan might be delayed, the spokesperson said “Yes.”
A plan was expected to be announced this month.
“It has been an honor to work closely with businesses, educational institutions and government organizations to create economic opportunity and foster the innovation and collaboration that have put us at the top of all those “Best places to live and work” lists,” Nance said in a statement.
“I’m excited to continue to work with economic development and corporate clients in my new practice.”
Nance had been promoted to COO ahead of Hayes’ retirement announcement.
Nance has worked at the RTRP since 2009 and headed the launch of the Research Triangle Cleantech Cluster organization.
“Lee Anne has done a great job of cultivating economic opportunity and guiding the strategic direction for the Research Triangle Region,” said Gary Joyner, chairman of the RTRP Board of Directors, in the announcement.
“Her ability to create collaboration and engagement among high-performing, technology-based companies and her passion for marketing the region have led to innovation and business growth. We’re delighted that we will be one of her first clients.”
Joyner is set to step down later this month and will be succeeded by real estate developer John Kane.
