Tom Anderson has been named as Bristol, Tennessee’s Director of Economic Development. He replaced Shari Brown who is stepping down after eight years on the job. Anderson previously served as a Business Specialist with the city.
City Manager Bill Sorah announced the selection of Anderson, a veteran community and economic developer. “Tom understands that the goal is to enhance the tax base and to create jobs. We feel he is very capable of steering those efforts and communications. As we look to the future growth of the city it may require different kinds of strategies. I think Tom has proven in his short time with us he is forward thinking and knows how to cultivate new relationships in the business community.” Sorah continued, “Tom understands the tremendous competition in the economic development landscape, we welcome him to his new leadership role on our team.”
Anderson duties will include working with the Bristol Tennessee Industrial Development Board, coordinating the city’s economic development activities with NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership, the Chamber of Commerce, the Convention and Visitors Bureau, other government agencies, private enterprises, civic groups and the general public. He will work to implement planning strategies to attract new businesses to Bristol and encourage expansion and retention of existing businesses to promote a stronger economic base “I am honored with this opportunity. Bristol Tennessee has a wonderfully progressive attitude toward responsible development. I am excited to work with such talented senior staff, department heads, City Manager and elected officials and our partners at NETWORKS,” said Anderson.
Anderson previously worked as the President of Carter County Tomorrow, a community and economic development organization which includes Workforce Development, Tourism Council, Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Commission. Prior to going to Carter County, Anderson served as East Tennessee State University’s Director of Economic Development for a rural economic development program. He holds a BS degree in Business Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, MS and is pursuing his Masters in Public Management at ETSU.
For more information contact Bill Sorah, City Manager, 423-989-5500 or [email protected]
