KEDC brings a familiar face back to Kilgore

When Kilgore Economic Development Corporation began work on a new strategic plan, one thing became evident from the start: due to the organization’s success, they were quickly running out of land to attract new capital investment and jobs to the area.

To strategically grow additional industrial parks, and properly manage the current assets of the organization, KEDC created a role to bring specialized expertise in real estate property management, expansion facilitation, land acquisition and development.

While filling that role felt to be a monumental task, it seems they found the perfect fit in a familiar face.

James Wright is set to become the new Director of Real Estate & Development with KEDC. Once the Location Manager of the Kilgore Halliburton Facility, Wright’s career has spanned twenty-three years with Halliburton, focusing on areas from HSE to Real Estate Management, from local, regional and global operations.

“I think I have a story to tell. Not just from the perspective of a family welcomed and made to feel at home by the community after a work transfer, but as a business partner’s Facilities Manager. I witnessed and felt firsthand the value and benefits of collaborating with KEDC,” said Wright. “I am really excited about the opportunity to contribute to Kilgore’s economic longevity, where we have always felt was home.”

Wright will take the reigns in his new position on September 29th, ready to tackle the new fiscal year on October 1.  KEDC Board President Bob Davis, Jr. said, “We are pleased to welcome James to the KEDC team. He will be a great addition, bringing years of experience in real estate, operations, and management from a global corporation. We look forward to having James, and his wife Kimberly, returning to our community.”

The Wrights will be returning to the area from Humble, Texas.