SLDC President & CEO Mutually Agrees to Part Ways with Organization
St. Louis, MO (May 1, 2025) — On Thursday, the St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) President and CEO Neal Richardson mutually agreed to part ways with the organization and Mayor Cara Spencer’s administration.
“Today marks the close of one chapter and the beginning of another. As I step down from my role as President & CEO of the St. Louis Development Corporation, I do so filled with deep gratitude, pride, and hope,” Richardson said. “Together, we’ve not only redefined what economic development can be—we’ve set a new standard for what it must be. Through the Economic Justice Action Plan, we brought a bold, unapologetic focus to equity, investing in people, places, and systems that have long been excluded from opportunity. And the results speak for themselves. It has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life.”
“I extend my deepest thanks to former Mayor Tishaura O. Jones, whose vision and support made this work possible, and I offer my full encouragement and prayers for Mayor Cara Spencer as she leads our city forward,” Richardson added. “Her success will be St. Louis’ success—and I trust in your continued commitment to help her achieve it.”
The SLDC Board of Directors voted to elect former SLDC President and CEO Otis Williams as interim president and CEO. Williams will start on Friday, May 2.
