Newly elected Gov. John Bel Edwards appointed Don Pierson to serve as Secretary of Louisiana Economic Development (LED). Prior to taking over as Secretary, Pierson served as LED’s Senior Director of Business Development and as Assistant Secretary and Chief Marketing Officer for the agency since January 2005.
LED is responsible for strengthening the state’s business environment and creating a more vibrant Louisiana economy. With executive-level leadership, Pierson’s duties include the implementation of domestic and international economic development programs and job retention and creation efforts for the State of Louisiana. He is Gov. Edwards’ primary representative to governmental officials, local communities and site selector consultants on all economic issues.
Pierson brings more than 27 years of economic development experience into his role as Secretary of Louisiana Economic Development under Gov. Edwards. Before coming to LED, Pierson served for 17 years in the Shreveport–Bossier community as Executive Director of the Greater Bossier Economic Development Foundation. He has served on a number of industry boards, councils and associations. Prior to his career in economic development, Pierson served for five years as an airborne and ranger qualified infantry officer in the 82nd Airborne Division.
