Above / Monica Conners, CEcD, will assume responsibilities as the new president of the Naperville Development Partnership on May 6, 2024. (Photo courtesy NDP)
The Naperville Development Partnership (NDP) is delighted to announce Monica Conners, CEcD, as its new president. Conners will begin her role on Monday, May 6, 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to Naperville’s economic development efforts.
Conners will assume the position held by NDP President Christine Jeffries since 1997.
“After 26 years of dedicated service and exemplary leadership, our esteemed President, Christine Jeffries, has expressed her desire to retire from her role,” wrote NDP Board Chairman Mark Wright when he informed the NPD board in late 2023 of Jeffries’ plans. “This decision has not been an easy one for her, as she has been passionately committed to the success and economic growth of our community since she began in 1997.”
Throughout her tenure, Jeffries has played a pivotal role in guiding the NDP through both good times and challenging times while driving planned growth and economic development opportunities upward, Wright added.
In 1999, Jeffries also assumed the leadership of the Naperville Convention & Visitors Bureau and in 2005 organized the Dine Naperville restaurant marketing program.
Monica Conners aims to steer economic development to new heights
Conners is an accomplished economic development professional with a distinguished career marked by successful initiatives and strategic leadership. Her career has included various positions in Virginia and Missouri before working for a Fortune 500 utility in an economic development position. Conners most recently worked in Delaware County, Ohio, as the director of economic development.
Holding the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation, Conners has demonstrated a profound understanding of economic growth strategies, business attraction and retention, and community development. Her expertise will be instrumental in steering the NDP toward new heights of success and innovation.
Naperville Development Partnership at pivotal point
“The Naperville Development Partnership is at a pivotal point in its journey toward fostering economic growth and prosperity in our community,” said Wright. “Monica’s visionary leadership and extensive experience in economic development make her the ideal person to lead our organization. We are excited to welcome her to our team and look forward to the dynamic and transformative initiatives she will bring to Naperville.”
As president, Conners will oversee the development and implementation of comprehensive economic strategies designed to enhance Naperville’s position as a leading destination for business and quality of life. Additionally, she will oversee both the Convention and Visitors Bureau and Dine Naperville. She will work closely with local businesses, government entities and community leaders to promote sustainable economic growth, job creation and investment in Naperville.
“I am honored to join the Naperville Development Partnership and work with the talented team and vibrant community here,” Conners said. “Naperville has a strong foundation of business excellence and community spirit. I am committed to leveraging these assets to enhance our economic landscape and create opportunities for all residents and businesses. Together, we will build on the NDP’s legacy and chart a prosperous future for Naperville.”
“I’m thrilled to have a seasoned economic development professional with a true passion for business attraction and retention join the Naperville Development Partnership,” Naperville Mayor Scott Wehrli said. “From Missouri to Ohio, Monica has a track record of targeting world-class businesses to locate, expand and stay in the communities she serves. Her growth mindset is exactly what Naperville needs now, and I’m excited to have her as a part of Team Naperville.”
Conners’ appointment is a testament to the NDP’s commitment to advancing Naperville’s economic development and ensuring the community’s bright and prosperous future.
Watch for opportunities to welcome Monica Conners to the Naperville Development Partnership and the Naperville community.
For more information about the Naperville Development Partnership, visit www.naper.org.
Report submitted by Naperville Development Partnership.
Naperville Development Partnership History
Incorporated in 1995, the Naperville Development Partnership is a public / private economic development organization that promotes business interests in the City of Naperville.
The purpose of the NDP is to maintain and improve the economic vitality of Naperville, Illinois, through the retention, expansion and attraction of all types of commercial enterprise that are conducive to the maintenance and improvement of a diverse and inclusive quality of life in Naperville. The Partnership’s board of directors includes representation from leaders in the business community as well as the City of Naperville, School Districts 203 and 204, Naperville Park District, and the Naperville Public Library.
