Oxford City Manager Brent Taylor has announced the hiring of Kenia Gomez-Jimenez as the city’s new Downtown Economic Director.
In her new role, Gomez-Jimenez will help develop the downtown economically and culturally and build relationships with stakeholders, Taylor said, and she will be active in implementing the city’s Main Street program, which provides downtown strategic economic development planning, revitalization, small business development, and the rehabilitation of historic properties.
Pierre Gingue, the president of the Downtown Oxford Economic Development Corp., welcomed Gomez-Jimenez. We are excited to see the enthusiasm, energy, and community-centered approach she will bring. We anticipate transformative growth and prosperity for our city’s core,” Gingue stated.
As a native of Vance County and a graduate of UNC – Chapel Hill, Gomez-Jimenez’s academic journey in Political Science and Philosophy ignited a deep-seated commitment to public service and community empowerment.
“I look forward to collaborating with the Downtown Oxford Economic Development Corporation existing downtown businesses, and community leaders to forge lasting positive impacts and cultivate a dynamic downtown community in Oxford,” said Gomez-Jimenez. “Most importantly, I’m excited to engage with the citizens of Oxford to enrich our downtown’s livability and elevate it as a pivotal destination for new businesses and visitors alike.”
During her time as Regional Program Coordinator at the Kerr-Tar Regional Council of Governments Gomez-Jimenez showcased her exceptional project management skills. She spearheaded the branding communications strategy for the Council, fostering robust relationships with regional stakeholders, citizens and local governments. Her most notable achievement was successfully administering federal and state grant programs, securing a substantial $200,000 in funding for active transportation projects across the five-county region. This feat, accomplished in less than a year, significantly enhanced the region’s infrastructure and promoted sustainable development.
Gomez-Jimenez is active in the community by serving on various boards and councils. Notable among these are her roles on the Henderson Optimist Club Board of Directors, Salvation Army of Henderson Board of Directors, and the Vance County Cooperative Extension Advisory Leadership Council. She was recognized as the 2023 Henderson Optimist of the Year and a graduate of the Leadership Vance 2023 program, and she has earned accolades for her outstanding contributions to community development and leadership. Gomez-Jimenez is fluent in both English and Spanish and believes diversity is a cornerstone of vibrant, thriving communities.