Sternlicht to step down in 2027

John Sternlicht, CEO of the Economic Development Alliance of Skagit County (EDASC), has announced his plan to step down from his role leading the organization in the first quarter of 2027. 

“I came to this decision with mixed emotions, because serving as the CEO of EDASC has been a great honor and a delight, and also the most rewarding work I have done in my career,” Sternlicht said. “Nevertheless, after 11 years it is time for a new generation of leadership now that I have essentially accomplished what I set out to do in this position. 

“I cannot begin to tell you, though, how much I will miss my daily interactions with the amazing team and phenomenal board of EDASC.” 

Sternlicht started at EDASC in the summer of 2015, taking over from long-time executive director Don Wick. Sternlicht has helped to bring EDASC into a new era of economic development that focuses on best practices not only in business attraction, retention and expansion, but also in capacity building for systems and services that enhance the well-being of all county residents.  

Sternlicht, a former board member of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and current board member of Washington Economic Development Association (WEDA), directed EDASC’s effort to become an Accredited Economic Development Organization through the IEDC, the only organization in the Pacific Northwest to hold that distinction. He also instituted programming and principles in justice, equity, diversity and inclusion, earning the inaugural DEI award from WEDA. 

Under Sternlicht’s leadership the budget and reach of EDASC have grown significantly, enabling the organization to carry out more relevant programming for existing businesses, particularly entrepreneurs, including educational programs now conducted in Spanish as well as English.

“The EDASC Board of Directors recognizes and is eternally grateful to John Sternlicht for a decade of dedicated leadership to the Economic Development Alliance of Skagit County, where he strengthened partnerships, advanced business growth, and guided a more collaborative and inclusive approach to economic development,” board Chair Nikki Wegner said. 

“Under his leadership, EDASC deepened its focus on supporting existing businesses, building regional capacity, and improving quality of life across Skagit County. John’s lasting impact has helped shape a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable economy, and his service will continue to benefit the community for years to come.”

Wegner, executive director of Chinook Enterprises, says the job search will begin mid-summer with the expectation the board will be able to make an offer to the chosen candidate in October.

Sternlicht, who lives in Anacortes, plans to continue being active locally, across Washington and the United States, consulting with organizations, governments, and individuals in economic development and nonprofit organizations. He will assist the EDASC board and the new CEO during a transition period.