Leadership Transition at East Central Indiana Regional Partnership

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

After a meaningful tenure as President and CEO of the East Central Indiana Regional Partnership (ECIRP), Trevor Friedeberg has announced his decision to step down from the role to pursue an opportunity that allows him to be significantly closer to family.

“This was not an easy decision,” said Friedeberg. “It comes after much soul-searching and reflection. I care deeply about this region, and I will truly miss the people the most – our dedicated community leaders, partners, and the incredible team that has become like family.”

During Friedeberg’s leadership, the Partnership has made measurable strides in advancing East Central Indiana’s economic development priorities. From building regional strategies that secure transformational investment, to growing visibility with statewide and national partners, to championing workforce, livability, and business attraction initiatives – momentum is growing across the nine-county region.

“Trevor has enthusiastically led the Partnership with vision and a deep commitment to collaboration,” Garrett Doan, East Central Indiana Regional Partnership Board Chair, said. “We are grateful for his service and the legacy of progress he leaves behind. The region is better for his leadership.”

The ECIRP Board of Directors has named longtime team member Caitlin Hancock as Interim CEO. With more than a decade of experience at the organization, Hancock brings institutional knowledge, statewide relationships, and a clear understanding of the region’s priorities.

“I’m honored to step into this role and build upon the strong foundation Trevor and our team have worked so hard to create,” Caitlin Hancock, Interim President and CEO, said. “East Central Indiana is full of opportunity, and I’m excited to continue our work to strengthen the region, grow partnerships, and move forward with energy and purpose.”

As ECIRP looks to the future, the organization remains firmly positioned to lead critical initiatives such as the Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) 2.0. The leadership transition reinforces ECIRP’s organizational continuity and ongoing commitment to advancing regional priorities.

“East Central Indiana is entering a season of extraordinary potential, and the strong foundation built under Trevor’s leadership puts us in an excellent position to grow,” Jud Fisher, Ball Brothers Foundation President and CEO, said. “I’m excited for the future of ECIRP and look forward to seeing Caitlin and the board continue to advance the important work of marketing our region and driving continued investment. ECIRP’s committed staff and board are deeply passionate and knowledgeable, and I have every confidence that our region will continue to build on recent successes. The future of the Partnership and the region is incredibly bright.”

Friedeberg’s final day with ECIRP will be May 31, 2025.
 

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