VALDOSTA — The Valdosta-Lowndes County Development Authority (VLCDA) has announced that Executive Director Andrea Schruijer will step down to begin a new position as director of business development at Gideon Constructors.

During her 13 years with the VLCDA, Schruijer has been a driving force behind the economic growth of Valdosta and Lowndes County, yielding approximately 3,500 jobs and more than $1.3 billion in capital investments, including GAF, Walmart dairy processing facility, Bimbo QSR, Arglass, Prinsco, P&B Cold Storage, and Utility Plastics, and existing businesses expansions to upgrade operations, machinery, and increased production capacity to meet rising demand.

“Andrea’s leadership has been transformative for Valdosta and Lowndes County,” said VLCDA Board Chair Brad Folsom. “Her ability to attract key industries and foster meaningful partnerships has played a pivotal role in driving the economic growth of our community. From bringing in major employers like Walmart and GAF to supporting existing industry growth, Andrea’s impact will be felt for years. We are grateful for her service and wish her continued success in her new position.”

The VLCDA announced the appointment of Kathryn “Niki” Ogletree as the interim executive director, effective Wednesday.

“The board has full confidence in Niki’s ability to lead the VLCDA during this transition,” Folsom said. “Her experience and dedication to our mission will foster continued economic growth.”

Folsom added that a search for a permanent executive director will begin in the next few months. “We are committed to finding the right leader who will build on the strong foundation already in place and guide the VLCDA into the next phase of growth and development.”

Ogletree joined the VLCDA last year as senior project manager to support the executive director in facilitating and managing all aspects of the site selection process, including initial contact, research, presentations, prospect visits, and obtaining required documents leading to industry announcements.

Previously, she worked at Wiregrass Georgia Technical College, serving as executive director of institutional effectiveness and executive director for academic affairs. In both positions, she gained extensive experience in post-secondary education, including academic affairs, faculty licensure and credentials, and institutional effectiveness.