Enrique Blanco has been named interim executive director for the Latino Economic Development Center (LEDC) by the organization’s board of directors. Blanco will take over after Henry Jiménez departs this coming February.
Blanco has been with LEDC since 2020, most recently as director of operations. Since joining LEDC, Blanco has focused on enhancing strategy and operations efficiency to streamline and enhance delivery of service programs. Blanco also acted in an interim capacity in 2021.
“Being appointed interim executive director for the LEDC is not just a role, it’s a commitment to our vibrant Latino community,” Blanco said. “I am humbled by the board of directors’ trust in me. A key focus of my tenure will be to continue executing our strategic plan to ensure that we remain on course toward our long-term goals.”
Blanco also mentioned a desire to continue to “foster growth, inclusivity and prosperity” to best meet Minnesota’s Latino community’s ever-evolving needs, as well as to invest in LEDC’s team.
“As a CDFI serving the Twin Cities and Greater Minnesota, our mission extends beyond economic development – it’s about nurturing dreams and fueling the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in our community by making capital accessible to Latino entrepreneurs to drive generational wealth,” Blanco continued. “Together, we will continue to build a future where economic empowerment and success are accessible to all.”
LEDC Board President Carlos Lamboglia added that “Enrique has been instrumental in the many successes LEDC has enjoyed over the last few years,” adding that the process to identify a permanent executive director is already underway. “The board’s goal is to ensure a smooth, effective, and efficient leadership transition. Appointing Enrique as interim executive director was the first step. Next, [outgoing Executive Director] Henry [Jiménez] and Enrique will begin the leadership transition immediately,” Lamboglia continued.
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