Gonzales Economic Development Corporation Names Michael Edwards as Executive Director
Gonzales Economic Development Corporation Names Michael Edwards as Executive Director
(Gonzales, Texas – October 2026) The Gonzales Economic Development Corporation (GEDC) has announced the selection of Michael Edwards as its new Executive Director.
Edwards brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in economic development, business operations, organizational strategy, and workforce development. His background combines hands-on economic development experience with extensive leadership of large, complex organizations.
Edwards previously served as Executive Director of the Bulverde/Spring Branch Economic Development Foundation, where he strengthened business retention efforts, developed community partnerships, and advanced workforce initiatives, including a career and technical education scholarship program.
At eXp Realty, the largest independent real estate brokerage in the world, Edwards led global operations, customer experience, and people strategy. He opened multiple international locations, directed the customer experience function for a network of 85,000 agents, and shaped employee experience and people strategy across the company. He also held several senior leadership positions in telecommunications, including Charter Communications and Cox Communications, where he directed operations of roughly 700 employees across more than 100 locations. His experience spans strategic planning, business development, organizational transformation, and performance management.
As Executive Director, Edwards will serve as GEDC's chief executive, leading business recruitment, retention and expansion, strategic development, and organizational operations. He will work closely with the GEDC Board, City leadership, businesses, and regional partners to advance investment, workforce initiatives, and long-term economic development strategies.
“Michael brings a valuable combination of business leadership, economic development experience, and the ability to translate strategy into results,” said Josh Gray, Chair of the GEDC Board of Directors. “His collaborative approach and commitment to supporting existing businesses align closely with our priorities. We look forward to working with him to advance Gonzales' long-term economic success.”
Gonzales City Manager Tim Crow emphasized the importance of collaboration in advancing the community's economic future. “Michael understands the importance of bringing local government, businesses, and community partners together around shared priorities,” Crow said. “I look forward to working with him to attract investment, strengthen our local economy, and support responsible growth that preserves Gonzales' unique character.”
Edwards said he is honored to serve the community. “Gonzales has a proud history, a strong community identity, and significant opportunities ahead,” Edwards said. “I look forward to working with the Board, City leadership, local businesses, and community partners to build on those strengths. My commitment is to listen, develop productive partnerships, and pursue opportunities that create jobs, support existing employers, and benefit the entire community.”
The Gonzales Economic Development Corporation serves as the community's lead economic development organization. Working with local government, businesses, educational institutions, and regional partners, GEDC supports business growth, investment attraction, workforce development, and strategic infrastructure initiatives that strengthen Gonzales' economic competitiveness and quality of life.