A city’s Director of Economic Development plays a critical role in strengthening the local economy by supporting businesses, creating jobs, and growing the tax base. The role includes attracting new businesses, helping existing ones expand, and leading redevelopment projects. It also involves planning, managing grants, and guiding businesses through city processes. It goes without saying that anyone stepping into this demanding role must bring a proven track record and hit the ground running.
Dr. Eliza Wilson has all this and more. Having grown up in Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard, Eliza moved to Brockton a few years ago but immediately involved herself in the community, becoming one of Brockton’s most vocal advocates. She has built relationships with business owners, developers, and residents, and constantly on the look-out for ways to promote the city. Because of this, she has already formed strong partnerships with key economic leaders.
Central to Eliza’s philosophy is the connection of real estate, infrastructure, and technology to support economic growth, improve energy use, and expand workforce opportunities. She is also focused on creating mixed-use neighborhoods that bring together housing, businesses, and community spaces. Her goal is to support current businesses while creating new jobs and opportunities for residents. Her background in facilities management, real estate, and education prepares her well for this role. She has already helped Brockton earn a Tech Hub designation from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and supported a 2025 plan for a Community Resilience Hub that connects climate technology, job training, and small business support.
Dr. Wilson has a strong educational background. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts Boston, an MBA from Felician University, and a Doctor of Education from Alverno College. She is known for a leadership style that focuses on teamwork, service, and clear results.
She also brings valuable professional experience. She spent five years in facilities management, overseeing Class A commercial properties in New York City and New Jersey, and four years in private real estate working with large housing communities across the country. During that time, she advocated for a $1.46 billion redevelopment project that replaced more than 1,100 older homes with nearly 2,700 new units, along with green space, retail, and community amenities. This experience will be especially useful as Brockton continues to focus on affordable housing.
Dr. Eliza J. Wilson brings experience, energy, and a clear vision to Brockton. Her focus on practical solutions, strong partnerships, and inclusive growth will help move the city forward. As Brockton continues to grow, her leadership will support a stronger local economy and create opportunities for residents and businesses alike.
Read more about the Brockton’s Planning and Economic Development initiatives here.