RGP’s Gary Thompson Presented National Award
Gary Thompson, executive vice president at the Regional Growth Partnership, was presented a national award this week for his lifetime work in economic development.
The Industrial Asset Management Council (IAMC) presented the Mary Jo Hanover Award Tuesday at the association’s Spring 2022 Forum in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
The award is presented annually to an economic developer who “exemplifies the spirit of the IAMC.” Criteria include:
- Are stalwart ambassadors for IAMC
- Uphold the highest standards of ethics and integrity in their profession
- Strongly believe in giving back to their industry
- Work to make this world a better place
- Are mentors within the profession
“This is an extremely prestigious award recognizing dedication to the profession and a commitment to the growth of communities. Gary’s demonstrable efforts over the years, both with the RGP and IAMC, embody the definition of professional economic development.”
IAMC President & CEO
IAMC is the leading industrial and manufacturing real estate trade association, offering professional development, networking opportunities and resources for its members in the U.S. and abroad. Founded in 2002, it has grown into a highly influential professional association of more than 600 dues-paying members, including senior real estate directors from 3M, Air Products and Chemicals, BASF, Campbell Soup Co., Corning Inc., General Mills, Hanesbrands, Kohler Co., The Linde Group, PepsiCo, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Weyerhaeuser, W.W. Granger and many other large industrial firms.
The namesake of the award, Mary Jo Hanover, was a long-term, highly engaged IAMC member who passed away in 2012. Thompson becomes the 10th recipient of the award, which was first presented in 2013.
Thompson began his career with the RGP in 2011. During his tenure overseeing business development, he has helped in the attraction and expansion of hundreds of economic development projects, including Amazon, Whirlpool, GM-Powertrain, First Solar and Marathon Petroleum. In just the last five years, the RGP, in collaboration with partners across the regional and state levels, has secured more than 23,000 new jobs to Northwest Oho, with total investment exceeding $13 billion.
“This is an outstanding, and well-deserved honor for Gary and the entire Regional Growth Partnership organization. Being recognized by industry peers speaks volumes to Gary’s work and accomplishments. It also sends a clear message to businesses about the level of professionalism and type of service they can expect in working with the RGP.”
& Chairman of the RGP’s Board of Directors
The Regional Growth Partnership is the lead economic development organization serving 17 counties in Northwest Ohio. As a private nonprofit development corporation, the RGP is dedicated to fostering regional, national and international business investment opportunities across the region. The RGP serves as Northwest Ohio’s network partner for JobsOhio.