Mel Jackson has been appointed as the new executive director of Sun Valley Economic Development (SVED), succeeding Harry Griffith, who founded the organization in 2010. Jackson, a financial planner and analyst with expertise in project management and stakeholder engagement, will work alongside Griffith during a transitional period to ensure continuity in leadership and strategic direction.
Griffith, who will remain with SVED as a consultant, has played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s economic landscape over the past 15 years. His contributions include spearheading the establishment of the Sun Valley Culinary Institute and securing accommodations for attendees of the 2025 Audi FIS World Cup Finals. He also led initiatives such as annual Economic Summits and roundtable discussions aimed at addressing regional challenges.
Reflecting on his tenure, Griffith credited collaborative efforts with government agencies, nonprofits, and local businesses for the organization’s successes, from early tax incentive programs to large-scale events that boosted regional visibility and economic activity.
Guy Cherp, chair of SVED’s board, expressed confidence in Jackson’s ability to build on this legacy. He emphasized the importance of sustaining and expanding economic vitality in Blaine County through strategic partnerships and innovation.
SVED operates as a 501(c)(6) public-private partnership, working closely with the Idaho Department of Commerce, Blaine County, and various state agencies. Its mission is to support economic diversity and resilience in the Sun Valley region. Funding comes from a state grant, county and municipal contributions, and over 150 private business members.
Jackson expressed enthusiasm about joining SVED, stating his intention to deepen economic connections within the community while advancing initiatives that promote long-term growth and inclusivity.
— news from Eye On Sun Valley
— News Original —
Sun Valley Economic Development Welcomes New Director
BY KAREN BOSSICK n nA financial planner and analyst has been chosen to succeed Harry Griffith as the executive director of Sun Valley Economic Development. n nMel Jackson, who has a background in project management, stakeholder engagement and communication, will work with Griffith as he transitions into the leadership of SVED over the next couple months. n nGriffith, who founded SVED in 2010, will continue as a consultant. n nMel Jackson is the new Sun Valley Economic Development director. n n“It is with great excitement and humility that I join the SVED organization,” said Jackson. “I am looking forward to carrying on the amazing work started by our founder, Harry, while also expanding and deepening economic ties within Blaine County.” n nGriffith has helped shape the community and provide it with data useful for making economic decisions in his role at the head of SVED. He was among those providing the vision for the Sun Valley Culinary Institute, eventually making that vision a reality. n nAnd he played a key role in ensuring that visitors and ski racers attending the 2025 Audi FIS World Cup Finals in Sun Valley had a place to stay. He also organized annual Economic Summits and occasional roundtable gatherings to explore solutions to challenges facing the Wood River Valley. n n“It’s been an awesome 15 years, helping our business community through the Great Recession, COVID-19 and the recent relocation cycle,” said Griffith. “Early successes like the Limelight Hotel’s Idaho tax incentive have morphed into meaningful and lasting impacts like the Sun Valley Culinary Institute and Alpine World Cup Finals. I’d like to shout out to the many collaborative partners during my tenure, from government institutions to nonprofits and our diverse business community.” n nGuy Cherp, SVED’s board chair, said he is confident that Jackson will advance SVED’s mission, further strengthening economic development in Blaine County and continuing the legacy of value and impact that Griffith developed. n n“I’d like to thank Harry for his leadership and countless contributions to our community over his many years of dedicated service,” he added n nSVED, a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit public-private partnership works directly with the Idaho Department of Commerce, Blaine County and its municipalities and other state agencies to preserve and advance the Sun Valley region’s economic vitality and diversity. n nIts volunteer board includes major employers, public officials and community groups. n nSVEF is funded by a renewable Idaho Department of Commerce grant, Blaine County and its cities and more than 150 private etor business members.