Woodfin names new head for Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity

The Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity (IEO) at the city of Birmingham — the city’s principal economic development department — has a new director.

Birmingham native Cornell Wesley, who was appointed by Mayor Randall L. Woodfin, began his duties effective Monday, Jan. 11, according to a city news release. He replaces Josh Carpenter, who stepped down from the post in November.

Wesley previously served as the economic development representative for Oklahoma and North Texas for the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration.

He managed more than $20 million in federal investment, yielding a $1.5 billion impact in private investment and creation of more than 4,000 jobs, according to the news release.

“Cornell Wesley not only has a proven track record of growing business, he understands the needs of his hometown,” Woodfin said. “His love of community and his passion for economic development makes him the perfect fit for this role. He’s a proven connector who will make major strides for our community.”

Wesley grew up in the Titusville neighborhood, graduated from Parker High School, earned a B.A. in economics at Morehouse College and holds certifications in management, economic development and entrepreneurship from several universities and economic development institutions.

“As someone who is a native of Birmingham, I’m uniquely positioned to understand where both challenges and opportunities lie in growing our city,” Wesley said. "I’m eager to carry out the Woodfin administration’s pledge to stimulate both small business growth and economic opportunity throughout our city."