Mayor Yemi names Shawna Lippert as Colorado Springs’ next Economic Development Officer

Mayor Yemi Mobolade has selected Shawna Lippert as the City of Colorado Springs' next Economic Development Officer, promoting a longtime member of the City's economic development team to lead efforts to strengthen the local economy, support businesses and attract investment to Colorado Springs.

Lippert, who has served as the City's Economic Development Manager and most recently as Acting Economic Development Director, begins in the role today, September 14. She succeeds Jessie Kimber, who departed the City earlier this year.

"Five years ago, Shawna and I served as colleagues in Economic Development, and I've had a front-row seat to her growth, leadership, and impact ever since. She brings deep experience, proven leadership, and a genuine commitment to helping businesses and entrepreneurs succeed in Colorado Springs," said Mayor Yemi Mobolade. "I'm confident Shawna will build on our economic momentum and strengthen the partnerships that create jobs, attract investment, and expand opportunity for our residents. Five years later, I'm incredibly proud to see her growth come full circle and to promote her into this important leadership role."

Lippert has worked on a range of economic development efforts for the City, including business retention and expansion, business incentives, redevelopment and support for small businesses. She has also represented the City in regional partnerships and economic development initiatives focused on attracting investment and creating jobs. Shawna has provided leadership and support from the City to help attract businesses to the region including Swire Coca-Cola USA, Invictus International Consulting, and Nooks. She also supported efforts for new developments including Forge at Peak Innovation Park, and co-led efforts to seek approval, establish, and designate CHIPS Zones in Colorado Springs.

Before joining the City, Lippert held leadership and economic development roles in the Colorado Springs community, including work at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. She earned her bachelor's degree from New Mexico Highlands University and her Master of Business Administration degree, with an emphasis in innovation management, from UCCS. Additionally, she completed professional training through the International Economic Development Council in business retention and expansion, real estate development and reuse, economic development strategic planning and credit analysis.

"I'm honored to step into the role of economic development officer and remain deeply committed to strengthening Colorado Springs by supporting our existing businesses, empowering entrepreneurs, and attracting new investment," said Shawna Lippert. "I look forward to working collaboratively with partners across the region to expand opportunity and drive long-term economic vitality for our community."

The City's Economic Development Department works with businesses, organizations and community partners to support business growth and investment in Colorado Springs. Its services include small business support, development and redevelopment assistance, issue resolution and economic development incentives.

"I've had the privilege of working alongside Shawna for several years, and there is no one better suited to lead economic development for the City of Colorado Springs," said Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer, president and CEO, Colorado Springs Chamber and EDC. "Her deep knowledge of our community, technically savvy approach to working projects and closing deals, and her passion for helping businesses excel make her the right choice for this role. On behalf of the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC, I want to congratulate Shawna and share our excitement to continue partnering with her as our city grows."

"Having worked with Shawna for many years, I have seen firsthand her commitment to collaboration and strong partnerships," said Crystal La Tier, executive director of Economic Development, El Paso County. "We are excited to continue working alongside her in this leadership role and to build upon our shared efforts to serve and strengthen our region."

As Economic Development Officer, Lippert will lead the City's economic development strategy and work with regional partners to support existing businesses, attract new employers and investment, and strengthen opportunities for economic growth across Colorado Springs.

For more information about the City's economic development programs and services, visit ColoradoSprings.gov/EconomicDevelopment.