Cornell Wesley, Birmingham’s director of Innovation and Economic Opportunity, has been named to the board of directors of the International Economic Development Council.
Wesley is the first from Birmingham and the second in the state of Alabama to be named to that board, the city says.
“Director Wesley’s leadership has greatly expanded the visibility of the City of Birmingham, which has yielded a tremendous economic impact that will be felt for generations,” said Birmingham Mayor Randall L. Woodfin. “From Paris, France, to Pratt City, Wesley and his team consistently work to find pathways to stimulate our economy. We are thrilled that he has been tapped to have a seat at this international table.”
IEDC is a nonprofit, nonpartisan group to support economic developers. It has more than 4,500 members.
The news release from the City of Birmingham says Wesley has played a “significant” role in bringing events to Birmingham, including the 2021 World Games, the 2023 National Association of Black Journalists conference, the upcoming 2025 World Police and Fire Games and others. Wesley has also been involved in the opening of a grocery store to address Birmingham’s food deserts and the sale and development of the Green Meadlow real estate initiative, a $2 billion project.
“This achievement is not only significant for me personally but also a tremendous opportunity for Birmingham and the state of Alabama,” Wesley said of his board appointment. “It brings with it greater visibility and enhanced access to resources that will aid us in our mission of prioritizing our community.”
