Our Staff

Brian Beaudry

Project Manager

Favorite Regional Asset: Great American Ballpark and The Banks DORA district. After watching the nation’s first professional baseball team in the Cincinnati Reds, grab a drink and enjoy the outdoors with our DORA district.

Brian Beaudry joins the REDI Cincinnati team as a Project Manager. In his role, he is responsible for advancing economic development projects and related supporting programs to completion while building relationships with investors, prospects, and community leaders.

Brian began his career in economic development in 2016 for one of the fastest-growing counties in Ohio, Warren County. Brian served dual roles as both the Economic Development Specialist for Warren County’s Economic Development Department (E.D.) and the Secretary for the Warren County Port Authority for 5 years. As a liaison between business and government, his main responsibilities centered around the day-to-day operations of the Economic Development and Port office, focusing on business retention and expansion while leading the county’s site selection process. He led the Warren County Chamber Alliance’s Capital Budget Prioritization Process, resulting in Warren County successfully receiving millions of dollars in state grants for local capital projects across multiple budget cycles.

In addition to his work with the E.D. and Port offices in Warren County, Brian collaborated with the Area 12 Workforce Investment Board of Butler-Warren-Clermont Counties as a contracted technical supportive staff.

A Southwest Ohio native, Brian grew up in the City of Montgomery and received a bachelor’s degree in public administration coupled with a minor in management from Miami University. He currently resides in Hyde Park in Cincinnati.

Outside of work, Brian can be found sampling the Cincinnati region’s craft brewery scene and cheering on every local pro and college sports team. He stays active by participating in multiple men’s ice hockey leagues and practicing his short game at local golf courses.

Susan Biorseth Roberts

Vice President, Operations

Susan Biorseth Roberts manages the day-to-day operations of the REDI Cincinnati office and assists the president & CEO. She joined the organization in November 2014.

Before joining REDI, Susan was the executive assistant to the CEO of a D.C.-based social media company. She was a longtime member of United States Senator Rob Portman’s political team, including the finance manager of the Portman for Congress campaign, executive assistant to Mr. Portman during his tenure with Squire Sanders & Dempsey, and statewide scheduler of the Portman for U.S. Senate campaign.

A strong believer in giving back to her community, Susan received her EMT-B and firefighter certificates. She has a lengthy history of volunteerism, including The Christ Hospital, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and Kindervelt.

Jerald Brantley

Senior Executive Assistant to the President & CEO

Favorite Regional Assets: Pendleton Art Center, Roebling Books & Coffee in Covington and selecting fresh vegetables and fruit from the Findlay Market.

Jerald Brantley joined REDI Cincinnati as the senior executive assistant to Kimm Lauterbach. He is responsible for managing the needs of the senior leadership team and REDI's day-to-day office operations.

Prior to joining REDI, Jerald worked at the Brighton Center, INC. as a financial service specialist certified by HUD in foreclosure prevention and pre-purchase counseling. The Brighton Center is a nonprofit, comprehensive agency in Northern Kentucky. While there Jerald served as the chair of the Cultural Inclusion Committee. Being employed there gave him an opportunity to connect with the community. Jerald served more than 25 years in various roles in collections, compliance, and financial services.

Having a strong passion for community, Jerald volunteered at Hospice of Cincinnati, American Cancer Society Relay for Life and March of Dimes. Currently, he serves on the Board of Directors at Darlington Farm Condo in Burlington, Kentucky where he resides.

Outside the office, Jerald enjoys both domestic and international traveling, skiing in Colorado, reading, and architectural design.

Rosa Christophel

Manager, Research

Favorite Regional Asset: Our geography. The rolling hills and beautiful stairways are part of our Midwestern charm!

Rosa Christophel is a Research Manager for REDI Cincinnati. In her role, Rosa responds promptly to inquiries regarding the Cincinnati region’s economy– she is also a research guru.

Before joining REDI Cincinnati, Rosa finished her Master’s in Applied Anthropology at Oregon State University. Rosa conducted original research with first-generation female farmers in Oregon. She was able to study how farmland access affected these women’s ability to build viable farming businesses. Rosa received her Bachelor’s in Anthropology from Northern Kentucky University. She is currently an adjunct professor through NKU’s Anthropology program.

As a native to Ohio and the Cincinnati region, Rosa enjoys outdoor activities. You will often find her on a walk in one of Cincinnati’s Great Parks. Rosa loves to read old books, listen to personal development podcasts, and work with her hands. As an avid gardener and exceptional baker and chef -- Rosa is passionate about healthy food access in rural Ohio.

Cierra Clymer

Director, International Business Development & Inclusion

Favorite Regional Asset: The food and drink scene. There’s not a weekend where I’m not trying a new bar/ restaurant or frequenting a long-time favorite!

Cierra Clymer is the Director of International Business Development at REDI Cincinnati. Cierra's role focuses on increasing foreign direct investment in the Cincinnati region through new attraction, expansion, and retention efforts. In this role, Cierra is responsible for managing the international lead pipeline, building market-driven strategies, driving lead generation through contracts, companies, and consultants. Cierra started at REDI Cincinnati as an intern and hired after graduation from Miami University to support the project management and business development teams as well as lead REDI’s site selection program. Prior to serving in her current capacity, Cierra served as a project manager with a specific focus on the organization’s international pipeline where she played an integral part in securing the new investment of the Italian manufacturer, Modula.

On behalf of REDI Cincinnati, Cierra serves on the Board of Directors for the Greater Cincinnati European American Chamber of Commerce and Japan America Society. She is actively engaged with both organizations to increase membership and participation from the region’s international community as well as work to attract new international investment. Cierra is a participant in the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber’s Cincy Next Class 6 – a leadership program for the region’s top young professionals and future leaders. Moreover, Cierra received her Ohio Economic Development Certification and is recognized as a ‘best-in-class’ throughout the state.

Prior to REDI Cincinnati, Cierra studied at Miami University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and International Studies with a focus in development and a minor in Spanish. During her time at Miami, Cierra gained international experience working on sustainable development projects in Central America and studying in Spain. While completing her undergraduate, Cierra served as assistant director at the local chamber of commerce in her hometown of Wauseon, Ohio where she assisted in community development efforts and local business engagement.

As an active volunteer for Habitat for Humanity and Give Back Cincy, Cierra channels her passion for community improvement professionally and socially. In her free time, she enjoys exploring Cincinnati’s urban core, traveling to new places, and cuddling with her puppy, Dallas.

Sarah Daligga

Project Manager

Favorite Regional Asset: Washington Park. Walking around the park before an FC Cincinnati match or during City Flea is the best way to spend a sunny day, but it’s also hard to beat the glow of the winter holiday lights!

Sarah Daligga joins REDI Cincinnati as a Project Manager. She discovered her love for economic development during graduate school at Indiana University’s O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs. She received her Master of Public Affairs degree in May 2021.

Sarah is a 2019 alumna of the University of Dayton, where she majored in political science and minored in human rights studies. From there, she went to Bloomington, Indiana to attend Indiana University. While in town and virtually, she held a work-study position with the Bloomington Economic Development Corporation (BEDC). Given the small staff at the BEDC, Sarah handled many different tasks, including marketing and communications work and coordinating the startup pre-accelerator program. Along with a summer internship at the City of Bloomington’s Economic and Sustainable Development department, Sarah’s experiences instilled in her the importance of community building and entrepreneurship.

Sarah hails from the Mitten State, which explains her love of the Great Lakes, Big Ten football, and winter weather. She is excited to explore Cincinnati and its neighborhoods as she begins her work. Outside of work, Sarah can typically be found reading mystery novels, watching baseball, or traveling with family and friends.

Karen Deime

Executive Assistant and Office Manager

Favorite Regional Asset: Our Craft Brewery and Local Arts scene. With 80 breweries and over 200 arts organizations in our region, there’s a beer for everyone while taking in our thriving arts culture!

Karen joined the REDI team in July 2021, assisting REDI Cincinnati’s Leadership team as well as working with the Business Development, Project Management and Marketing and Operations teams on a variety of projects, including expense management, travel, logistics and event planning. In 2023, she assumed the role of office manager, ensuring REDI’s organizational effectiveness and efficiency.

Karen has held a variety of Executive Administration, Project Management, and Event Planning roles with Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Crayons to Computers, lpk, and Synchrony Financial. Karen was part of Cintrifuse’s founding team that helped grow the Cincinnati region's innovation ecosystem. She is a connector and has extensive experience working with entrepreneurs, corporations and community leaders.

Karen was born in Columbus, grew up in Dayton and earned her bachelor’s degree in Communications from Ohio University. She has called Cincinnati home for 18 years.

Music, art and travel are personal interests, and you can regularly find Karen at a concert, an art opening, a local arts festival, or traveling the world. Karen is passionate about giving back to Cincinnati and is an active community volunteer.

Kevin Donnelly

Vice President, Project Management

Favorite regional asset? The rivers! Everything in this region stems from our access to water. We love kayaking and tubing or enjoying drinks and dinner with the view of the river and bridges.

Kevin Donnelly is Vice President of Project Management for REDI Cincinnati. In his role, Kevin leads REDI’s project management team and is the main contact for companies evaluating the Cincinnati region for growth opportunities.

Prior to joining REDI, Kevin worked for Northern Kentucky Tri-County Economic Development Corporation (Tri-ED), guiding the IEDC Gold Award-winning business retention and expansion program. He also played a strong role in business development and project management. Before working for Tri-ED, Kevin was a strategic coordinator for Northern Kentucky’s community visioning plan Vision 2015 (now Skyward) and a manager of public affairs and communications for the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce.

Originally from Cincinnati, Kevin graduated summa cum laude from Northern Kentucky University (NKU) with a bachelor’s degree in political science and international studies before receiving his MBA from the same institution.

Outside of work, Kevin can be found exploring Northern Kentucky and greater Cincinnati sports, breweries, and restaurants with his wife Liz and son Jack.

Andrea Enders

Director, Business Development

Favorite Regional Asset: The Roebling Bridge – it connects my favorite parts of the region, downtown & Covington AND it’s an example of Cincinnati leading the way, as it was the prototype of the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.

Andrea Enders is the Director, Business Development for REDI Cincinnati, focused on supporting existing industry as well as attracting companies to the Cincinnati region. These efforts include managing the REDI leads pipeline, coordinating the REDI Portfolio Management Strategy, and leading engagement with consultants and multipliers all with the goal of bringing new businesses to Southwest Ohio, Northern Kentucky, and Southeast Indiana.

Prior to becoming Director of Business Development, Andrea was an integral part of the REDI Cincinnati project management team in addition to serving as the region’s SiteOhio lead. Since 2015, she has closed more than 35 projects, which have totaled more than 3,800 new job commitments and $425 million in capital investment commitments. Most notably, Andrea led the Ensemble Healthcare HQ attraction project and the effort that secured Italian manufacturer Modula’s expansion into the former Dayton Daily News building.

Andrea has previously served on the Board of the Ohio Economic Development Association and played an active role in the organization’s strategic planning. In 2016, Andrea helped establish a new OEDA committee, ED YP. The focus is to welcome young professionals and new economic developers to the ED career field and introduce them to industry experts, mentors, and peers. The committee coordinates with ED YP leaders across the state of Ohio to develop programming and networking opportunities with the goal of elevating the profession and increasing interest in ED as a career.

Before joining REDI, Andrea connected business to local resources as a membership development representative at the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber. Andrea started her career at Enquirer Media assisting companies with recruitment advertising needs. These experiences and several leadership roles with Give Back Cincinnati helped Andrea form a deep appreciation for the Cincinnati region and desire to focus her efforts on impacting the community.

Andrea received a B.A. in Social Relations and Policy from Michigan State University’s James Madison College of Public Affairs and is a member of the Chamber's second Cincy Next leadership class.

Sam Henning

Project Coordinator

Sam Henning joined the REDI Cincinnati team in 2022 as a project coordinator. He is responsible for assisting project managers in gathering, compiling, and presenting data during all phases of economic development opportunities as well as conducting analyses of active project pipelines and reporting on trends and projections.

Sam holds a bachelor’s degree in economics with a minor in political science from the University of Kentucky.

Prior to joining REDI Cincinnati, Sam worked at the Northern Kentucky Area Development District (NKADD) where he further realized his passion for economic development. As part of the administration department at NKADD, he was responsible for assisting elected officials of cities and counties to acquire funding from the federal government in the form of Community Development Block Grants.

Outside of work Sam enjoys traveling, cheering on Kentucky basketball and playing trivia with friends. He is an active member of his community and volunteers at the Dinsmore Homestead in Burlington, Kentucky. He enjoys staying active through snowboarding, golf and basketball.

Adam Jones

Director, Regional Talent

Favorite Regional Asset: Lawrenceburg Speedway in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. Great, affordable, action-packed weekend entertainment for sports-minded families.

Adam B. Jones is the Director of Regional Talent for REDI Cincinnati. In this role, Adam is responsible for leading, managing and being accountable for the REDI Cincinnati talent acquisition and delivery strategy in the region, with a specific focus on attraction and expansion projects.

Prior to joining REDI Cincinnati, Adam served as executive director of the Workforce Investment Board of Butler, Clermont and Warren Counties in Southwest Ohio; a public/private partnership designated and certified by the Governor of Ohio to provide workforce development services funded through the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. As the executive director, he designed and implemented an aggressive restructuring of the workforce board that resulted in the highest performance rating of the Board since 2008, increased levels of membership engagement (90 percent up from 48 percent), and record levels of initial and repeat business customers (1,480 percent cumulative increase during three years).

During his tenure on the Workforce Board, Adam created a new youth employment program known as CareerConnection, which centralized disparate operations, and added structure and consistency to better serve the area’s emerging workforce. This resulted in the development of a new and unique career expo event known as SkillsCon. During this time, he was also nominated and elected by his peers to serve as an executive officer of the Ohio Workforce Association and worked with federal oversight agencies on public workforce policy.

Aside from his experience on the Workforce Board, Adam was elected to two consecutive terms as a City Councilmember in Fairfield, Ohio, also serving as vice mayor, is a former big band and oldies rock ‘n roll radio broadcaster, and races stock cars at Lawrenceburg Speedway in southeastern Indiana.

Adam earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business, majoring in Management Information Systems with a concentration in Market Research and Analysis from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio.

Kimm Lauterbach

President & CEO

As a founding member of REDI Cincinnati’s leadership team, Kimm engineers strategies and tactics that strengthen the three-state, 16-county Cincinnati region to compete globally. Kimm took the helm of REDI Cincinnati in September 2018, following five successful years as vice president of business development and project management for the organization. In that role, she changed the face of economic development in the Cincinnati region, leading all aspects of the deal for companies locating to or expanding in the region.

She has played a pivotal role in Ohio’s economic development across multiple cities and counties in both the public and private sectors, aligning diverse stakeholder interests with the needs of business communities across long-term regional economic goals

Kimm serves on the board of directors for the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber and the Cincinnati Experience, as well as the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky Foreign Trade Zones, Tri-County Economic Development Corporation (Northern Kentucky Tri-ED), and University of Cincinnati Research Institute. Kimm also serves on the Cincinnati region’s RESTART Task Force aimed at guiding the business community’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In January 2022, she was named to the International Economic Development Council’s Excellence in Economic Development Awards Advisory Committee. Awards have highlighted Kimm’s successful career, with the Cincinnati Business Courier naming Kimm its 2021 CEO of the Year for Small Nonprofit Organizations, which follows the publication’s 2017 Women Who Mean Business recognition. In 2016 and again in 2021, Consultant Connect named her one of North America's Top 50 Economic Developers. Kimm is also recognized as a Woman of Influence by Venue and Lead Magazine.

Kimm is a magna cum laude graduate of Indiana University’s Master of Public Administration program, with concentrations in nonprofit management and public policy. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from the University of Dayton.

Bryan McEldowney

Director, Marketing and Communications

Favorite Regional Asset: Jungle Jim’s International Food Market. If you’re a chef at heart, this grocery store is the jam!

As the director of marketing and communications, Bryan McEldowney is responsible for overseeing internal and external communications initiatives, creating the messaging for REDI Cincinnati and assisting with the development and implementation of REDI's annual marketing plan.

Bryan has nearly 20 years of professional experience, including more than a decade in communications. His background includes a wealth of knowledge in a variety of communication channels, including media relations, public relations, digital media, social media, and broadcast production.

Most recently, he served as Northern Kentucky University’s Assistant Athletic Director for Communications and Media Services where he oversaw the day-to-day operations of the Athletic Communications Department, creating and executing the annual communications plan promoting Norse Athletics, its 17 sports programs and all student-athletes. During his tenure at NKU, Norse Athletics' annual reach grew to more than 250,000 unique visits on NKUNorse.com and over 3-million minutes of home athletic events, which were produced in-house, were consumed each year on ESPN+.

Bryan has also served in the athletic departments at Xavier University and the University of Memphis, which followed a seven-year career as a high school teacher and basketball coach in the Greater Cincinnati Region.

Bryan has called the Greater Cincinnati area home since 2005. Along with his wife and three sons, he currently lives in Springfield Township. In his spare time, Bryan loves cooking – especially with his custom-built smoker – as well as snow skiing, swimming, playing disc golf, and traveling with his family.

Chase Mosijowsky

Manager, Business Engagement

Favorite Regional Asset: Cincinnati’s Culinary Scene. Ask me where to get dinner!

Chase Mosijowsky joined REDI Cincinnati in 2021 as an Engagement Coordinator. His background in investor relations, fundraising, and community organizing led to his current role which combines community engagement and investor relations.

Prior to joining REDI Cincinnati, Chase worked as a campaign ambassador, managing a portfolio of non-profit and private sector workplace-giving fundraisers for the United Way of Greater Cincinnati. He then served as deputy campaign manager to Hamilton County Commissioner Alicia Reece, in addition, to finance roles for campaigns across the State of Ohio.

Chase graduated from the University of Cincinnati in 2019 with a BA in Political Science. While originally from the shores of Lake Erie, he fell in love with the Cincinnati region as a student and set up roots to continue working and living here after graduation.

Outside of work, Chase enjoys traversing the tri-state area on foot and exploring the region’s brewery scene. You can often find him playing basketball or shopping at Findlay Market. He currently resides in downtown Cincinnati.

Brittany Nicholls

Business Retention & Expansion Manager

Favorite Regional Asset: Findlay Market! It’s a great way to experience local food vendors and explore a variety of different shops. Such a vibrant spot in the summertime!

Brittany joined the REDI Cincinnati team in 2022 as a Business Retention and Expansion Coordinator. In this role, she leverages the Global Business Development team by proactively connecting with existing businesses to understand and respond to business needs.

Brittany holds a Bachelor’s degree in marketing with a minor in international business from the University of Kentucky. During her time at UK, she spent a semester in Seville, Spain where she was exposed to the diverse traditions of Spanish culture while gaining a deeper understanding of international business and economics.

Prior to joining REDI Cincinnati, Brittany was a resident in Nashville, Tennessee, working in the construction industry. She worked on large commercial projects including new construction multifamily and historic restoration projects in downtown Nashville. Through this position, Brittany found a passion for community development. She is excited to explore the Cincinnati region and learn more about the area as she dives into her role.

Outside the office, Brittany enjoys attending concerts, trying new restaurants, and spending time with friends and family. An ideal weekend for Brittany would be checking out the local music scene, spending time at the dog park with her pup Koda, and cheering on the Kentucky Wildcats. Brittany is currently a resident in downtown Cincinnati.

Carrie Pastor

Director, Community & Investor Relations and Chief of Staff

Favorite regional asset(s): Our fantastic parks throughout the region. If you have young children, there are plenty of beautiful outdoor spaces to enjoy with them while they burn off energy!

Carrie Pastor serves as Director of Community & Investor Relations and Chief of Staff at REDI. In this role, Carrie works with investors, builds regional relationships, and drives engagement with REDI.

Prior to joining REDI Carrie served as Senior Manager of Government Affairs at the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber where she led the Chamber’s local and federal government affairs work. Carrie worked closely with elected officials and partners, including REDI, to advocate for funding and tools to drive economic development and the region’s growth.

Before her time at the Chamber, Carrie worked in public affairs at the Union League Club of Chicago and in the office of the president at the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL).

Carrie holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy and Administration from Northwestern University and a bachelor’s degree in Political Theory and Constitutional Democracy from James Madison College at Michigan State University.

Carrie co-chairs a national peer group of investor relations professionals for economic development organizations. In 2014 Carrie was named a YWCA Rising Star. She is a graduate of C-Change Class 12 and completed Beyond Civility in 2017.

A native of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Carrie grew up along Lake Superior and looks forward to visiting her family there and in Florida. Carrie lives in Hyde Park with her husband, children and dog.

Andrea Pinho

Director, Site Selection and Real Estate

Favorite Regional Asset: The Mercantile Library in downtown Cincinnati is a treasure among the gems, with a cool history (there’s a 10,000-year pre-paid lease!) and a swanky design!

Andrea Pinho joined the REDI Cincinnati team in 2019 as the site selection and real estate manager. In 2022 she was promoted to Director. In this role, Andrea assists growing companies in finding their perfect location to thrive in the Cincinnati region. Her greatest ability is to pinpoint ideal real estate options that fit the exact needs of her clients.

Before joining REDI Cincinnati, Andrea worked at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation where she facilitated $4+ million in revenue to businesses in the state. As a senior program manager, Andrea worked to engage key stakeholders in targeted industries. She was able to transform stakeholder’s business gaps into potential qualified partnerships. Andrea takes pride in the cities she calls “home”. She is thrilled to work with REDI Cincinnati to support the region’s thriving community and economy.

As an Alma College alumna, Andrea graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and minors in Communication and Spanish. While in school, she was fortunate enough to play volleyball, develop an appreciation for an active community, and travel to both Nicaragua and Peru.

In her spare time, Andrea enjoys staying competitive at volleyball, finding new restaurants to rave about, and staying social with family and friends. She lives in Loveland with her husband Jason.

Gina Rittinger

Vice President, Marketing and Strategic Communications

In her role as REDI Cincinnati Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Communications, Gina Rittinger is responsible for leading the organization’s marketing initiatives relating to business recruitment, development, and retention in the three-state, 16-county Cincinnati region.

Gina is a career marketer with more than 23 years of experience in the development, creation, and launch of on-target solutions aligned with organizational, marketing and sales objectives. Her strengths include coaching, mentoring, and change management; leading and managing cross-functional teams and driving initiatives and projects, large or small, from concept to completion with collaborative success.

Gina most recently served as Assistant Vice President for Marketing and Communications at Northern Kentucky University (NKU), where she managed the cross-functional teams charged with developing campus-wide marketing, branding, and public relations. Prior to joining NKU, Gina was director of marketing communications at General Cable, a global Fortune 500 wire and cable manufacturer; and an account executive at RGI Design. Gina, who earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism from NKU, also currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky (TANK).

A lifelong Northern Kentuckian, Gina brings a unified and passionate regional perspective to her role in shaping strategic communications and helping deliver and amplify REDI Cincinnati’s message throughout the region. Gina, who resides in Grant’s Lick, Kentucky, with her husband, and two sons, spends as much time as possible camping, boating and horseback riding with family and friends.

Ian Smith

Director, Business Development

Favorite Regional Asset: Little Miami Scenic Trail. The 78-mile trail brings out the adventurous spirit whether you’re a walker, jogger, cyclist, nature enthusiast or visitor of connected communities!

Ian Smith is a seasoned economic development professional and serves as a Business Development Director for REDI Cincinnati. A passionate advocate for the Cincinnati region, Ian takes time to learn about and advocate for companies exploring new investment opportunities in the region.

Ian was a member of the REDI Cincinnati team when it was created in 2014 and had the privilege of supporting its growth into a nationally recognized economic development organization. Ian went on to gain economic development experience in the private sector, joining a Fortune 100 company in The Kroger Co. He gained vital experience in supporting several dozen new project initiatives across multiple Kroger industries including Information Technology, Distribution & Logistics, Manufacturing, and Retail Operations. Additionally, Ian played a strong role in streamlining economic incentive compliance reporting, helping the team standardize reporting for more than 100 active company projects. Before working for REDI Cincinnati and Kroger, Ian gained data analytic experience with Nielsen, supporting global clients through diagnosing consumer purchase behavior and competitive analysis.

Ian has had the privilege of experiencing the three major “C”s of Ohio, being born in Cleveland, growing up in Cincinnati, graduating magna cum laude from the Ohio State University in Columbus with a bachelor’s degree in strategic communication and a minor in marketing, and growing his career back in Cincinnati.

Outside of work, Ian, his wife Ali, two daughters and two dogs live in Terrace Park, OH and can be found taking advantage of the many family-friendly activities that the Cincinnati region has to offer, including the Cincinnati Children’s Museum, the Newport Aquarium, Little Miami Bike Trail and the Cincinnati Zoo. Ian has also become a passionate soccer fan; he and Ali attend as many FC Cincinnati home matches as possible.

Jennifer Thomas

Manager, Research

Favorite Regional Asset: The people. I am grateful for the innovation and advocacy of the people in this region. They truly make collaborating and communing effortless.

Jennifer is a Research Manager at REDI Cincinnati. She works toward discovering solutions and providing a visual for those inquiring about the region’s economic growth. She really enjoys this work; existing in between creative problem solving, and data-driven results. It’s a unique space that calls for new strategies every day.

Jennifer has a degree in Biopsychology and Neuroscience from Miami University, where she spent a large amount of her time conducting research in the university’s research facilities. She has participated in panels and annual speaking engagements at the University, assisting undecided students with selecting majors and career paths. She also earned a M.Ed. in Applied Behavior Analysis as well as a certification in Advanced Data Analytics from the University of Cincinnati. Her skills, among many others, include detail-oriented research, data maintenance, and data visualizations. Jennifer is certified in Power BI and enjoys creating new visualizations within the platform.

Born and raised a Cincinnatian, Jennifer attended Walnut Hills High School and has developed a passion for youth education, specifically in STEM. Her passion for youth education has created opportunities for community engagement, as she currently sits as The National Society of Black Engineers’ Cincinnati Professionals Chapter executive board as Secretary and Director of the Communication Zone after formally serving as the chapter's vice president. The chapter focuses on creating an environment for the city’s professionals to network, as well as assisting with programming aimed to help minority youth foster an interest in STEM.

In her free time, she loves gardening, ice skating, and playing sand volleyball. She lives in Cincinnati with her sister Chelsea and pup Pilot. On the weekends, you’ll likely catch her at the latest rooftop restaurant, checking out a local jazz artist, relaxing at Ziegler Park, or having a morning coffee at BlaCk Coffee Lounge.

Matt Zimmerman

Senior Project Manager

Favorite Regional Asset:  Cincinnati’s Running and Biking Trails.  There is no shortage of options, but I personally enjoy the “Loveland Bike Trail”, the Lunken Airport Path & Otto Armleder Park and, of course, the riverfront!

Matt Zimmerman joined the REDI Cincinnati staff as senior project manager in September 2022. In this role, He is responsible for assisting companies in their growth plans, advancing projects and supporting programs while building relationships with local, state and national stakeholders.

Matt has nearly 15 years of professional experience, including close to a decade in community and economic development.  His background includes experience in the public, private and non-profit sectors. Prior to joining REDI Cincinnati, Matt spent the last three and half years in Nashville, Tennessee, helping run a chocolate manufacturing company where he was tasked with growing corporate relationships, conducting analyses on sales trends and customer feedback, and managing the company’s social media content and messaging.  While in this role, sales saw significant growth as the company's footprint continued to expand.

With a career that began in Indiana working for both state and local units of government, Matt developed a passion for community and economic development while helping administer the state’s Community Development Block Grant program. Matt also worked with One Dearborn in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, helping to launch the organization’s business attraction website.  While there he conducted county, region and statewide research to ensure Dearborn County and southeast Indiana were well represented, with the appropriate story being conveyed. In addition, he visited area businesses to learn more about their operations and how One Dearborn could spotlight their accomplishments.

Matt received his Master of Public Affairs degree from Indiana University (Indianapolis campus) with a specialized concentration focused on economic development and finance.  While pursuing his degree, he participated in a study abroad program at Peking University in Beijing, China.  He also holds a B.S. in Business Administration with minors in Economics/Finance and Criminal Justice.

Outside of the office, Matt can be found running along the river, exploring the  Cincinnati region or searching for the best donuts around. He resides in Newport, KY with his wife Bridget and daughter.