Governor Herbert’s chief of staff, Derek Miller, has been named president and CEO of the World Trade Center Utah.
The governor’s vision for Utah is to be the best performing economy in the nation and to be recognized as a premiere global business destination. Miller’s new role to increase exports and foreign investment will help ensure that vision becomes a reality.
“Combining Derek’s background as my chief of staff with his service at the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and the Utah Dept. of Commerce has him well prepared to help Utah businesses expand into profitable global markets,” said Gov. Herbert, who has set the goal to increase Utah’s value-added exports to $9 billion by the end of 2015. “I want to thank him for his years of service and, though I hate to see him leave, I’m excited about what his continued service will mean to our economy and our state.”
“I am grateful for the opportunity to have served as the Governor’s chief of staff,” said Miller.” It is now time for me to serve in a new capacity, and while the position is different the vision and goal are the same – to make Utah a premier global business destination. I look forward to continuing to be a champion for the principles of free enterprise and economic growth that lead to jobs for Utahns across the state.”
Established in in 2006, the WTC Utah has become the epicenter of international activity in Utah, serving more than 3,000 Utah entrepreneurs. Research shows that metro areas with active World Trade Center offices export 270 percent more than areas without these important resources. Merchandise exports in Utah have more than tripled in Utah since the WTC Utah welcomed its first clients, reaching a record-high at $19 billion in 2012.
“Derek is eminently qualified to lead the World Trade Center Utah,” said Scott Anderson, president and CEO of Zions Bank and chair of the WTC Utah Board of Directors. “Utah is increasingly recognized as a leader in the international marketplace, and Derek’s breadth of experience in the governor’s office and beyond will serve to further strengthen Utah’s position in global trade—a critical component to our state’s future economic success.”
Miller will become the second person to serve as president and CEO of the WTCU. Lew Cramer, who currently serves as vice chair of the organization, resigned late in 2013. World Trade Center Utah is a licensed and certified member of the World Trade Centers Association headquartered in New York City.
“International opportunities in Utah have reached a nexus and Derek’s experience and leadership will propel the WTC Utah’s global business focus to a new level,” said Spencer P. Eccles, executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development. “I have worked closely with Derek for nearly five years and have witnessed, firsthand, his ability to develop and implement collaborative and impactful strategic plans that have greatly benefited the State. I look forward to partnering with him in his new role as CEO of the World Trade Center Utah.”
Gov. Herbert said Miller will transition to his new role at the WTC Utah once his successor has been named. That announcement is expected in the next few weeks.
