Don Pierson
Senior Advisor
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Don Pierson joined The Roosevelt Group in January 2025. His 35 years of experience as an economic development professional include executive-level leadership and strategic economic development program implementation. Don’s key competencies include industrial site selection, strategic planning, governmental relations, workforce recruitment and retention, as well as attraction of foreign direct investment.
Most recently from 2016-2024, Don served as the Secretary of Louisiana Economic Development. Don was appointed by Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards to oversee the implementation of domestic and international economic development programs and job retention and creation efforts for the State of Louisiana. He served as Gov. Edwards’ primary representative to governmental officials, local communities, and site selector consultants on economic issues.
From 2016 to 2023, the State of Louisiana participated in more than 400 major economic development projects representing more than $100B of new capital investment in the state. These projects accounted for more than 95,000 potential new jobs. Prior to 2022, Louisiana had never had consecutive years of investment above $20B; before the fourth quarter began in 2023, Louisiana had surpassed that mark for a third year in a row.
Awards and Accomplishments:
- Honorary Life Member, Southern Economic Development Council
- Eugene J. Schreiber Award, World Trade Center of New Orleans, 2018
- Louisiana National Guard Distinguished Civilian Service Medal, 2023
- State of Louisiana Committee of 100 ~ Distinguished Service Award, 2023
- Innovation Leadership Award ~ SBIRC.org, 2022
- Louisiana Economic Development Corporation, Board of Directors 2016-2023
- Louisiana Board of Commerce and Industry, Executive Director 2016-2023
- Louisiana Cyber Security Commission, Board of Directors 2017-2023
- Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority, Board of Directors 2016-2023
- Louisiana Military Advisory Council, Chairman 2016-2023
- Aerospace Alliance, Louisiana, Board of Directors 2016-2023