The Indy Economic Development Inc. board of directors announced the appointment of Andrea Richter-Garry as the organization’s president and CEO.
As president and CEO, Richter-Garry will oversee Indy Economic Development’s efforts to attract global and local investment, support existing business growth, deepen connectivity to Indianapolis’ community assets and planning, and advance the strategies that strengthen Indianapolis’ long-term economic competitiveness. Prior to being named interim president and CEO, Andrea served as EVP of Business Development and International Relations for Indy Economic Development, where she oversaw the successful retention of Corteva in Indianapolis. She steps into the role at a pivotal moment for the organization as it continues to build momentum from a top-performing year and elevate Indianapolis as a destination for business and investment opportunity.
“Indianapolis is a city with real momentum, and Andrea Richter-Garry understands how to build on it,” said Mayor Joe Hogsett. “Her experience, vision and leadership will help expand opportunity, attract investment and ensure Indianapolis continues to grow in a way that strengthens neighborhoods and serves the people who call our city home.”
Richter-Garry has served in federal, state and local government focused on economic policy - ensuring her perspective navigates macroeconomic trends to maximize local growth. Prior to her time at Indy Economic Development, she built Indiana’s foreign investment and global business strategy at the Indiana Economic Development Corporation,, where she also oversaw defense, trade, energy and federal affairs. She was part of a multi-year, record-setting investment team and chaired the Indiana Global Economic Summit twice.
“I’m honored to step into this role at a time of such strong momentum for Indy Economic Development and for Indianapolis,” said Andrea Richter-Garry. “There is tremendous opportunity on the horizon for our city - from catalyzing new business investment to building long-term competitiveness to unlocking neighborhood development and resilience. Indy offers a best-in-class investment destination and place to live. I look forward to working alongside partners across the city and region to build on that progress and shape an economy that enhances opportunity in every part of our city and for generations to come.”
Earlier in her career, Richter-Garry served as an advance lead to President Barack H. Obama at the White House. She began her government career in the U.S. Department of State in 2009, where she developed expertise in economic statecraft and energy security. Richter-Garry holds a bachelor’s degree in political science, global studies and German from Hamline University and a master’s degree in European studies from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service. She serves on the boards of the International School of Indiana, the Indiana-Germanic Business Council and the Asia-Pacific Business Association of Indiana. She is a proud resident of the Indy neighborhood of Fountain Square where she and her husband are raising their four children.
“Andrea Richter-Garry brings a powerful combination of economic development expertise, global business and proven, results-oriented leadership,” said Earl Goode, Vice Chair of Indy Economic Development’s executive committee. “She understands both the local priorities and global relationships that will help Indianapolis compete and grow, and we are thrilled to have her leading the organization forward.”
