The Valley Economic Alliance has chosen a former economic development group leader and newspaper publisher as its new president and CEO, the Sherman Oaks-based business organization announced today. The new organization leader, Ron Wood, served as CEO of the San Gabriel Valley Economic Partnership from 2007 through 2009. He also served as the publisher of the San Gabriel Valley Newspaper Group, a position he started at in 1998. Wood has also held executive positions with the Los Angeles Newspaper Group, MediaNews Group and the Bakersfield Californian. “Ron has a proven track record of success working with public and private sector partners to foster economic growth,” said David Fleming, the organization’s chairman. “He knows what it takes to retain, attract and grow high quality jobs and businesses, and we are confident he will provide the leadership needed to improve the business climate and quality of life in the San Fernando Valley.” Wood has also been active in the nonprofit arena. He has served on the board of directors for Goodwill Industries of Southern California, San Gabriel Valley Council Boy Scouts of America, Boys and Girls Club of the Foothills and Valley Public Television-Central California. He is also founding chairman of Goodwill Industries of Kern County and a member of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation. Wood is scheduled to start working at the Valley Economic Alliance on Jan. 18. The position became vacant after the organization’s former president and CEO, Bruce Ackerman, died of cancer in August. Harvey Berg has been filling the position on an interim basis. “I’m honored to help move forward Bruce’s vision of strengthening and positioning VEA as the region’s premier economic development collaborative,” Wood said. “I look forward to working with key business, government, education and community leaders to grow and sustain the economy of the Valley’s five-city region.” Wood has an MBA from the University of La Verne and a bachelor’s degree in organizational management from the University of San Francisco. Jessica Vernabe
