LED announces staff appointments

Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Stephen Moret today announced five appointments. Jeff Lynn, who currently is executive director of LED’s FastStart program, now will serve as executive director of workforce development programs. His new position is a combination of current position with another existing position. Chris Stelly’s new title is executive director of the Office of Entertainment Industry Development. He formerly was interim director of the office, and is also director of Louisiana Film & Television. Anne Villa, vice president of operations and finance for MDI Entertainment, is joining LED as undersecretary, with responsibilities that include accounting and budget control, procurement and contract management. Jason El Koubi, currently LED’s director of state economic competitiveness, will serve as assistant secretary, responsible for managing LED initiatives and programs related to business intelligence and development. Don Pierson, the current assistant secretary, now will serve as senior director of business development. In addition to the appointments, LED will eliminate an existing workforce position as well as a business development position, which will reduce payroll by $148,400 per year, including salary and benefits. The positions currently are unfilled, so layoffs are not required.