The Salt Lake Chamber and the Economic Development Corporation of Utah (EDCUtah) are pleased to announce Ryan Starks as the new Executive Director of EDCUtah.
“We are thrilled for Ryan to step into this position and lead the EDCUtah team,” said Derek Miller, president and CEO of the Salt Lake Chamber. “Ryan brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, leadership skills and new ideas, and we are confident in his ability to elevate the business sector in this capacity.”
Previously serving as the executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO), Ryan was instrumental in its growth. His leadership helped achieve historic wins, including Texas Instruments’ $11 billion investment, helping bring over 13,000 high-paying jobs to Utah and $16 billion in capital to Utah, and more.
“It’s an honor to step into this role at EDCUtah,” said Ryan Starks. “I’m deeply passionate about Utah’s dynamic business environment and look forward to building on the strong foundation that’s already in place. I’m excited to contribute in ways that support the important work of strengthening communities, driving growth and creating opportunities statewide.”
Ryan’s career spans public service, education and entrepreneurship, with prior roles at the Heber Valley Chamber of Commerce, Brigham Young University and as founding director of Wasatch CAPS. He also led international trade missions and launched initiatives like the Startup State and Joint Utah Mexico Partnership (JUMP) program to strengthen Utah’s global and rural economic reach.
“Ryan’s experience and unique qualifications to lead this organization will be exceptionally valuable, as he has an impressive understanding of Utah’s economic landscape,” said Tom Morgan, chair of EDCUtah’s Board of Trustees. “His passion for growth, partnerships and economic development is evident. I look forward to working closely with him to see that continue.”
As the executive director, Ryan will work closely with business leaders, site selectors and public partners to support recruitment efforts, provide strategic data and insights and grow the business community. Ultimately, EDCUtah is a one-stop shop for both companies and site selection teams, offering a wide range of business retention and expansion services to help business leaders make their next location decision.
Upon hearing the selection, Gov. Spencer J. Cox said, “Ryan has been a key part of my Administration’s efforts to keep Utah the best state for business and opportunity. I am thrilled that he will continue this important work leading the Economic Development Corporation of Utah and look forward to the public and private sectors working together as ‘Team Utah’ to drive economic prosperity.”
Ryan will begin leading the organization on May 19, 2025.
About Ryan Starks
Ryan Starks was previously the executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity. In this role, Starks oversaw Gov. Spencer J. Cox’s vision of providing economic opportunities for all Utahns. The office supports business, industry and community growth through various financial incentives and grant programs. The office fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, supports targeted industries, promotes responsible tourism and works to strengthen Utah’s diverse workforce.
In addition, Starks was previously the managing director of growth and innovation in the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, overseeing business expansion programs and partnerships,
rural economic development initiatives and the state’s international trade and diplomacy efforts. He also serves as an honorary commander of the 419-fighter wing at Utah’s Hill Air Force Base.
Previously, he has worked for the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) in Washington, D.C., as the executive director of the Heber Valley Chamber of Commerce and as the founding director of the Wasatch Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS) — an innovative workforce partnership between students and industry. He also taught as an adjunct professor of management for 10 years in the BYU Marriott School of Business.
Starks earned a bachelor’s degree from Weber State University, where he served as student body president, and a Master of Public Administration degree from BYU. He earned a certificate in economic development from the University of Oklahoma and a certificate in entrepreneurship and innovation from Harvard University. Starks, his wife Amy, and their four children reside in South Jordan.
MEDIA CONTACT
Marisa Bomis
Director of Marketing & Communication, Salt Lake Chamber
734.732.8167
ABOUT THE SALT LAKE CHAMBER
The Salt Lake Chamber is Utah’s largest and longest-serving business association. A statewide chamber of commerce with members in all 29 Utah counties, the Chamber represents the broad interests of the state’s 63,000- plus employers, which employ more than 1.4 million Utahns. This includes thousands of Chamber members and their employees. With roots that date back to 1887, the Chamber stands as the voice of business, supports its members’ success and champions community prosperity.
ABOUT THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION OF UTAH (EDCUTAH)
A private non-profit organization founded in 1987, the Economic Development Corporation of Utah (EDCUtah) catalyzes capital investment and strategic economic opportunities to create quality jobs in Utah. Our vision is to create a prosperous and resilient economy for generations of aspiring Utahns. Learn more about how EDCUtah supports businesses seeking to expand or relocate their operations in Utah: www.edcutah.org.