The City of Lawrence has appointed Susie Carson as its new Director of Economic Development, effective January 5, 2026. With over 15 years of experience in economic development and chamber leadership, Carson is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing business retention, workforce initiatives, and public-private collaborations aimed at long-term community prosperity. n nMost recently, she served as Vice President of Membership & Sponsorship Investments at the Olathe Chamber of Commerce, where she worked hand-in-hand with city officials to support business expansion, attract investment, and strengthen economic resilience in the region. Her strategic engagement with stakeholders helped position Olathe as a competitive destination for future capital inflows. n nEarlier in her career, Carson led the El Dorado Chamber of Commerce as Executive Director, spearheading programs focused on small business growth, downtown renewal, and entrepreneurial support. These efforts contributed to revitalizing local commerce and fostering innovation within the community. n nShe is currently finishing a Master of Public Administration at Wichita State University and is on track to earn her Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation. Throughout her professional journey, Carson has been actively involved with national and regional organizations, including the U.S. Chamber’s Institute for Organization Management, the Kansas Economic Development Alliance, and the International Economic Development Council. n nAssistant City Manager Brandon McGuire praised her appointment, stating that Carson’s collaborative mindset and extensive background align well with Lawrence’s vision for inclusive and resilient economic advancement. n nCarson’s leadership is expected to enhance cross-sector partnerships and support policies that balance business growth with community well-being. n nContact: City Communications, citycommunications@lawrenceks.gov
— news from City of Lawrence, Kansas (.gov)
— News Original —
City of Lawrence Announces New Director of Economic Development
The City of Lawrence is pleased to announce the hiring of Susie Carson as the City’s new Director of Economic Development. n nCarson brings more than 15 years of economic development and chamber leadership experience, with a strong record of supporting business retention, public–private partnerships, workforce development, and regional economic strategy. Her work has consistently focused on aligning business priorities with long-term community goals and strengthening relationships across sectors to promote sustainable growth. n nCarson most recently served as Vice President of Membership & Sponsorship Investments at the Olathe Chamber of Commerce, she partnered closely with the City of Olatado support business expansion efforts, contribute to investment-related discussions, and engage investors and stakeholders in initiatives that promote Olathe’s economic vitality and help position the community for future investment. n nPrior to that, she served as Executive Director of the El Dorado Chamber of Commerce, leading initiatives that supported small business development, downtown revitalization, and entrepreneurship. n nShe is completing her Master of Public Administration at Wichita State University and is nearing completion of her Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) credential. Carson is active in the U.S. Chamber’s Institute for Organization Management and has engaged with several state and regional economic development organizations throughout her career, including Kansas Economic Development Alliance and International Economic Development Council. n n“Susie brings a collaborative approach, deep experience, and a strong commitment to community-centered economic development,” said Assistant City Manager Brandon McGuire. “We are excited to welcome her to Lawrence and look forward to the leadership she will bring as we continue building a strong, resilient local economy.” n nCarson’s start date is January 5, 2026. n nContact: City Communications, citycommunications@lawrenceks.gov