Hale characterizes the change in leadership at the agency as a smooth transition, a view shared by Governor Ronnie Musgrove. In a news release at the time of Hale’s appointment, Musgrove stated, “We have had a strong management team in place, and that will not change. Steve Hale is a known commodity to this state’s economic development community, and I am confident in his abilities to continue our success.”

A former mayor of Senatobia, Hale had previously worked as senior policy advisor to Governor Musgrove, focusing on economic development. “My experience in economic development comes from the local level,” Hale states. “That’s where everything starts.”

“I think Mississippi and the Delta are well positioned for economic growth, and the state is at the forefront of innovation and opportunity,” he continues. “Consultants and companies now know that Mississippi is serious about economic development. With Advantage Mississippi, economic developers have a variety of tools to help job growth and expansion statewide. We will continue to market the state to improve the quality of life for our citizens.”

Hale states that Mississippi’s best selling point is Governor Musgrove, who he calls the state’s lead salesman for economic development and job creation. “The governor has an amazing ability to understand the needs of business and to communicate this message to the client. As governor, he can assist us by opening doors and dialogue with the consultants and companies,” he comments.

During Hale’s eight years as mayor of Senatobia, the city opened an industrial park and attracted several prominent industries to the area. Prior to his public service, he spent 16 years managing a family-owned building supply business.

The Mississippi Development Authority oversees economic, community, and tourism development programs. Hale says that he sees the MDA as a service agency, working to aid cities, counties, and economic development groups. In addition to building strategic alliances, he says the creation of quality jobs, the advancement of technology, better assistance with the expansion of existing businesses, and improvement of the state’s infrastructure are among his primary goals.

Addressing specifically the needs of the Delta region, Hale says, “Many people are hard at work in the Delta to increase job opportunities and to build programs for success. There is a strong desire for continued positive change, and I look forward to working with many people in the Delta to improve the economic climate.”

“I want to see everyone continue to work together—throughout the state and throughout the Delta-with a common goal of increasing good job opportunities. MDA will continue to emphasize the needs of the Delta in our efforts to market the state for growth opportunities.” DBJ