Branch new EDC Director

FERRIS – James Branch has been selected as the next Economic Development Director for the City of Ferris as of Dec. 2.

Branch will serve a dual role, as Assistant City Manager of Support Services and the Economic Development Director.

“This is a great way to gain a high caliber candidate, retain them with great pay, and reduce the financial impact to the EDC,” said City Manager Brooks Williams.

“James will be instrumental in our mission to drive positive economic development in the city of Ferris.

“I am excited that he has agreed to join our team and I know this will bring positive changes to our city,” said Williams.

Branch joins the city of Ferris with decades of experience working with municipalities and bringing an entrepreneurial spirit to local government. As a strategic human resources and operations executive, with oversight and responsibility for more that 650 employees, Branch is widely considered an expert in his field.

Branch has held government leadership roles and been involved in negotiations with companies such as Walmart, Tractor Supply, Buc-ee’s, retail shopping centers and anchored developments and restaurants (fast food and sit down).

Employee relations, benefits and compensation, recruiting and retention, strategic culture change/development, and training and development are all a focus for Branch in his current role. His ability to mitigate risk and create high-performing cultures have been critical the successes he has achieved in the past.