Virginia’s Gateway Region Economic Development Organization is pleased to announce the appointment of Keith Boswell as the organization’s new President & CEO.
With over 30 years of experience in both the private and public sector, Boswell comes to VGR after spending over 20 years working in economic development at the state level. Boswell’s focus on attracting new business, supporting existing business, and collaborating with various federal, state and local authorities to increase job creation and capital investment will serve Virginia’s Gateway Region well as the organization continues to grow and prosper.
“I am honored and humbled to be selected as the next President & CEO of Virginia’s Gateway Region,” said Boswell. “VGR has a proud history, an unbelievable track record, and is deeply committed to the growth and vivacity of the region. I look forward to leading an organization that exists to make a positive impact on the communities we serve and the citizens who call the Gateway Region home.”
Founded in 1960, Virginia’s Gateway Region is the state’s oldest regional economic development organization. What started as a small group of local businessmen looking to attract industry to the Tri-Cities has grown into one of the top-ranked economic development entities in the state. VGR’s success comes as a result of unwavering support from its eight communities and over 120 corporate partners.
Renee Chapline resigned in February after serving as VGR’s President & CEO for 13 years. During Chapline’s tenure, VGR facilitated over 230 company announcements, creating nearly 20,000 jobs and $5.4 billion of capital investment. Chapline now serves as the Vice President of Communications & Government Affairs at the Prince George Electric Cooperative.
“After an intensive screening and interview process, I am thrilled that our search committee unanimously selected Keith to lead VGR,” said Victor Branch, VGR Board Chairman and Richmond Market President of Bank of America. “With his level of economic development expertise at the helm and a dedicated staff to support him, I am confident that we will continue to see tremendous results from Virginia’s Gateway Region.”