A new executive director for Portage Regional Economic Development is being sought, and many are showing their interest in the position. That's according to City Councillor and City Economic Development Chair Liz Driedger, who says less than a week after the position was posted, they've already started seeing some applications. Driedger says she's not surprised to see the interest, given the nature of economic development.

"I think that as a whole, the community is very interested in economic development, and everyone has an idea of what that should look like. The fact that the interest is strong, I'm not surprised by that at all."

While there's no shortage of interest, Driedger says selecting the right candidate for the role will take some time. She notes they want someone with a proven track record, who can also look after the day-to-day operations at the office, including staff and financial management. Also, while making connections with businesses and potential investors is an obvious part of the job, Driedger notes the executive director also needs to work with the federal and provincial governments.

"They have to work strongly with both the province and federally. There are a number of grants that can be secured through the PRED office to help the different initiatives that are going on. There has to be all of those components involved."

The applications of the position will be accepted until July 8th, and Driedger hopes to see many from the local area, as well as nationally, apply for the role.