The new vice president of Columbia Regional Economic Development Incorporated (REDI) says it’s been a smooth transition and that she’s excited to be at REDI.
Kaylee Paffrath previously served as president of the Moberly Area Economic Development Corporation (MAEDC):
“Really getting to focus on what I enjoy and do best at, which is site development and business recruitment,” she says.
Ms. Paffrath will also be involved in high-impact project management at Columbia REDI. REDI describes itself as a collaborative partnership committed to attract, expand and grow business development opportunities.
Ms. Paffrath started with REDI in late June and is a familiar name in economic development in mid-Missouri from her work in Moberly. She tells 939 the Eagle that she’s been busy making connections:
“Going to continue to introduce myself, reach out to new people. But at the same time already working some leads on potential new developments,” she says.
REDI president Paul Eisenstein says Paffrath’s specialized background in economic development tools like Chapter 100 is a powerful asset to the REDI team.
Paffrath replaces longtime REDI vice president Bernie Andrews, who retired in February. He was a key player in economic development efforts in Columbia/Boone County for more than 29 years. Paffrath praises Bernie for his assistance, noting they’ve had lunch and had a great discussion.