Noem taps Hegg executive for GOED commissioner

Dec. 7, 2018

Steve Westra, chief operating officer of Hegg Cos., has been appointed by Gov.-elect Kristi Noem to serve as commissioner of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development.

“South Dakota does a lot of things right, but our economy needs a renewed focus,” Noem said.

“Steve Westra’s real-world experience in the private sector will be invaluable as we look to expand job opportunities and recruit new businesses by developing our workforce and cutting unnecessary regulations. Steve has helped create and grow businesses; he knows what it takes and the challenges that must be overcome. Most importantly, Steve is a servant for people, and I know he’ll work hard to produce results that kick-start our economy and bolster our industries and businesses, families and communities.”

In his role at Hegg, Westra has shown an ability to develop strategies that bring capital investment to job-creating projects in South Dakota, Noem said. He has spearheaded various public/private partnerships and has extensive experience in working with both in-state and out-of-state private equity and debt providers for the purpose of creating businesses in South Dakota.

He also serves on the state tourism advisory board and served in the state House of Representatives from 2013-16, including two years as assistant majority leader.

“I firmly believe South Dakota has the right low-tax, low-regulation formula to be a national economic leader,” Westra said. “I couldn’t be more honored to partner with Gov.-elect Noem to make that possibility a reality.”

Westra will continue serving on Noem’s transition team until Jan. 5.

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Noem taps Hegg executive for GOED commissioner

Steve Westra, chief operating officer of Hegg Cos., has been appointed by Gov.-elect Kristi Noem to serve as commissioner of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development.

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