GSI hires firm to assist in search for its next CEO

Greater Spokane Incorporated has hired Waverly Partners to conduct an executive search for its next CEO.

The Cleveland-based firm will work with search committee members to identify the person who will replace Rich Hadley, who is leaving after 20 years as CEO.

Hadley has said he’ll depart in May.

GSI is the Spokane area’s largest economic development agency, uniting the former Spokane Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Spokane Area Economic Development Council.

Board members Linda Elkin of U.S. Bank and Scott Morris of Avista will chair a 17-member search committee.

Hadley said the amount spent on the search will depend on how many candidates are reviewed and how many are brought in for visits.

“Our committee has developed a profile with the experience and leadership characteristics of our preferred candidate,” Elkin said in a news release.

“We are open to executives with backgrounds in economic development, chambers of commerce, business associations, other kinds of nonprofits, private sector or related experience with a commitment to our mission of business advocacy in this region,” she said.