Geoff Kravitz announced his resignation as Economic Development Director for the Town of Amherst effective January 31, 2020. He will be taking a new position as Town Administrator in the Town of Sunderland.
Town Manager Paul Bockelman stated, “Geoff has been a key member of the Town’s management staff for the past four years. As Amherst’s first Economic Development Director, Geoff worked to create a vision for the Town’s economic future. He has also taken the lead for the Town on the introduction of medical and adult-use marijuana, provided the staff guidance in the review of all Town general and zoning bylaws, and ushered the downtown parking study to its conclusion.”
Kravitz was hired in 2015 to become economic development director for the Town, a first for Amherst. He has shaped and developed the position by working closely with the Town staff and developed extensive positive relationships with the business community, the colleges, and the University of Massachusetts.
“Amherst is an exciting and attractive place to live, work, visit, and be in business,” said Kravitz. “I’m pleased with what I was able to accomplish on behalf of the community, including strong collaborations with UMass and the colleges, helping attract and retain local businesses, deepening the integration between businesses and cultural organizations, and laying the groundwork for the future of the Amherst economy. In my time as Economic Development Director the number of jobs in Town increased by over 10% and the value of commercial property grew by more than $21 million. I am glad I had the opportunity to work for such an incredible town and look forward to collaborating with the Sunderland Select Board, community, and staff as we chart a path for Sunderland’s future.”
Bockelman added. “I want to thank Geoff for his dedication to the Town and willingness to take on additional responsibilities, and I respect his decision to step out on his own to be the leader in our wonderful neighboring community in Sunderland. I’m sad to see him go but wish him the best in his new position.”
The Town will begin recruiting a new economic development director in the very near future. All current and future positions will be posted to our online Career Portal and www.amherstm.gov/jobs where there is a notification sign-up tool for any new job postings.
For more information: Brianna Sunryd, Communications Manager | Contact info: sunrydb@amherstma.gov
For immediate release: January 21, 2020