Leadership
Henderson Economic Development Hires Taylor Hanley as Vice President, Effective Immediately
By News Desk ·
Key takeaways
- Taylor Hanley became vice president of Henderson Economic Development, effective immediately.
- Hanley previously worked as a customer material analyst at DANA Manufacturing.
- Executive Director Missy Vanderpool and Board Chair Kate Grealish welcomed Hanley's manufacturing background.
Henderson Economic Development has named Taylor Hanley, a Henderson native and former customer material analyst at DANA Manufacturing, as its new vice president, effective immediately. Yahoo carried the community announcement on November 2, 2026.
Hanley's Role at Henderson Economic Development
Hanley will lead business retention and expansion, workforce development and economic development initiatives, according to the announcement. In the role, Hanley will work with Henderson's existing industries on expansion and workforce development efforts.
At DANA Manufacturing, Hanley analyzed customer demand, anticipated market trends and risks, and developed long-term relationships, the announcement said. Hanley said the manufacturing background gave firsthand experience with Henderson's local industries.
"I'm incredibly honored to join Henderson Economic Development and have the opportunity to serve a community that means so much to me," Hanley said. "Henderson is home, and I'm excited to play a role in its continued growth and success."
Executive Director Missy Vanderpool said Hanley brings enthusiasm, a fresh perspective and a passion for the community. "Economic development is a team sport, and I have no doubt Taylor will be a tremendous asset to our team and the work we do every day to move Henderson forward," Vanderpool said.
Board Chair Kate Grealish said Hanley's manufacturing background and perspective will be important in the position. "Taylor presented herself as a stand-out candidate from the first round of interviews," Grealish said.
Henderson Economic Development's Workforce Programs
According to akta.pro company records, Henderson Economic Development Corporation is a non-profit serving Henderson County and Northwest Kentucky, founded in 2014 with a headcount range of 11-50. The same records list partnerships formed in 2021 with the Kentucky Community College System, covering Henderson Community College, West Kentucky Community and Technical College and Owensboro Community and Technical College for workforce development programs including a Manufacturing Academy, a FAME apprenticeship and skills training. A 2021 partnership with Murray State University's Henderson Regional Campus offers bachelor's, master's, graduate certificate and doctoral programs in the area.
The records also list a 60-acre tract on 425 Bypass adjacent to Pratt Industries included in the Kentucky Product Development Initiative, and a labor draw area population of more than 250,000 within driving distance of Henderson County.
Leadership Changes at Other Development Groups
Tahra Goraya stepped down as president and CEO of the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership, EIN Presswire reported on October 27, 2026. John Threadgill will retire as president of the Bartlett Area Chamber of Commerce effective January 31, 2027, after 20 years in the role, Yahoo reported on October 21, 2026.
The Hampton Roads Executive Roundtable named William R. Van Buren as board chair and Shannon O. Pierce as vice chair, succeeding the inaugural co-chairs, with two-year terms through December 31, 2028 and a transition set for the November 18 board meeting, Virginia Business reported on October 21, 2026.