The Rhode Island Commerce Corporation’s new president and chief operating officer will bring with him a wealth of experience in both business development and government, Gov. Dan McKee’s office said today.
Jim Bennett, a Brown University graduate who has served in a variety of leadership positions, including executive vice president of Prospect Medical Holding, was appointed to the position.
As director of economic development for the City of Providence, Bennett played a key role in the development of Arcade Providence, the Providence G, and South Street Landing, among other public-private projects. He has also served in leadership positions in the private sector, including founding and operating several start-up companies across a variety of industries.
“I welcome Jim to the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation and look forward to hearing his ideas as we continue the great work already being done by the team,” Commerce Secretary Liz Tanner said. “Jim brings decades of experience that will assist Commerce on our mission to make Rhode Island a premier place to live and do business.”
Bennett, a Brown University graduate, has also served as chairman of the Rhode Island Convention Center Authority.
“I am excited to go to work on behalf of our state, using my business experience and previous time in government to help boost economic growth and create more good-paying jobs,” Bennett said. “I look forward to digging into the new challenge and collaborating with Governor McKee and Secretary Tanner to make a difference.”
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) assisted a What’sUpNewp journalist with the reporting included in this story.
