Economic Development Director Tom Flynn to Step Down

Loudoun Department of Economic Development Director Tom Flynn tendered his resignation Monday, making his departure effective on July 31. Assistant Director Buddy Rizer will serve as interim director until the position is permanently filled.

Flynn became DED director in November 2010 after having served the City of Charlotte, NC, for 30 years.
“Having successfully accomplished many of the goals that were set out when I was hired, I believe I am leaving Loudoun’s economic development program better than I found it to pursue other opportunities,” Flynn said in a press release from the county. “It was a privilege to work with the talented staff of the department.”
Word about the resignation began to float early July 15 after members of the board of supervisors learned Flynn had submitted a resignation letter. County Administrator Tim Hemstreet lauded Flynn’s work.

“Through his diligent efforts, Tom has raised the bar and the effectiveness of the Loudoun Department of Economic Development,” said Hemstreet. “Under his leadership, the department has significantly increased the prospect pipeline, has grown the number of jobs in Loudoun County, and has attracted millions of dollars of net additional capital investment in the county.”
Flynn headed a department of 16 who focused on business recruitment, retention, formation and expansion, including rural economic development.
Rizer has worked for Loudoun County since April 2007, becoming assistant director in February 2012. Before coming to the Loudoun County government, Rizer worked in radio, including positions as an owner/operator, program director, brand manager and on-air personality.

In 2012, Rizer earned national a Certified Economic Developer designation, which is conferred by the International Economic Development Council, and recognizes the practitioner’s mastery of and professional excellence in the field of economic development.