The Rochester Area Economic Development Inc. board of directors announced Tuesday the hiring of Albert Lea’s Ryan Nolander to serve as president of the organization.

Nolander, who has served as executive director of the Albert Lea Economic Development Agency since 2013, will replace outgoing RAEDI President Gary Smith, who is retiring after 29 years.

“I want to say thank you to the ALEDA board, the (Albert Lea Business Development Center) board, the staff and all our members for their support during my years with ALEDA,” Nolander said in a press release. “Economic development truly takes a team effort, and we can’t do what we do without this support.”

He said even though he is leaving the community, he will still be in the region and looks forward to continuing partnerships with ALEDA and others in the area.

Nolander started as the assistant director at ALEDA in 2005.

The release stated some of the successful projects and initiatives during Nolander’s tenure include the new Larson Manufacturing distribution center, the choice of Zumbro River Brand to locate and expand in Albert Lea, and the decision of Minnesota Energy Resources to locate and build its new facility. There have also been loans given to many local small businesses, the creation of the Albert Lea Entrepreneur Advancement Program with other partners, participation in the ALEDA industrial park development and the construction of three spec buildings.

The ALEDA board said though the news was disappointing, they and ALEDA staff extended their congratulations to Nolander on the opportunity and thanked him for his dedication to Albert Lea and the economic development agency.

“Ryan’s commitment to the progressive thinking of ALEDA has built a strong organization,” said ALEDA board President and Albert Lea Mayor Vern Rasmussen Jr. “We appreciate all he has done for our community. His leadership will be missed, and we wish him well in his new opportunity with RAEDI.”

Mark Heinemann, board treasurer, said he has worked with Nolander through the ALEDA board since 2014.

“In that time, I’ve found him to be a passionate supporter of Albert Lea, and instrumental in bringing some exciting projects to fruition. Clearly RAEDI saw the same, and we wish Ryan the best with this new opportunity.”

Nolander’s last day with ALEDA will be no later than June 1.

The release stated the board will start looking for a replacement immediately.