Baker resigns from NCI to take Chicago position

Ivan Baker, president and CEO of the North Central Illinois Economic Development Corp. (NCI) since its founding three years ago, has submitted his resignation effective July 14.

Baker has accepted a new position as consulting manager in Credits and Incentives for Crowe LLP in Chicago. Crowe is one of the largest business accounting and consulting firms in the nation, with more than $900 million in annual revenue, and is ranked as one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work for in America.

“It is with reluctance that I accept the resignation of Ivan Baker as the president and CEO of North Central Illinois Economic Development Corporation,” said NCI Chairman Steve Aubry.

“He came to our organization and given the task of developing a regional economic development group that had the sole purpose of marketing the available industrial sites within LaSalle, Bureau and Putnam counties to the world. The results prove that he has developed a top-notch organization to meet this goal,” Aubry said.

“When he started, this area received 4-10 leads per year. We now are receiving 5-6 per month, a 400 percent increase. The major commercial brokers and site selectors of the nation now know that the NCI region has the available sites and workforce. When qualified leads come into our region, complete proposals are submitted quickly. The site selectors know that the region is united and motivated to attract new industrial and manufacturing businesses,” Aubry said.

NCI is the only organization in the region that is focused on marketing industrial development property to site selectors, consultants, brokers, developers, and targeted executives. Only NCI has achieved the significant success in promoting quality sites and regional advantages necessary to compete for new quality jobs in Bureau, LaSalle and Putnam counties.

“It has been an honor and privilege to work with leaders and investors who are truly committed to the economic future of this great region,” Baker said. “No other organization has the network, leadership, reputation and resources to promote North Central Illinois for new investment and new good-paying jobs.”

Aubry said Baker will be staying on board through the transition period. The process to find a replacement will begin immediately, he said.

“I personally thank Ivan for the commitment he has shown to our region, and wish him the best in his new endeavor,” Aubry said.