The Potawatomi Business Development Corporation (PBDC) has named Kip Ritchie its chief executive officer.
Ritchie, a member of the Forest County Potawatomi Community, has been with PBDC since its inception in 2002, holding various leadership positions, most recently as interim CEO and chief operating officer.
"As a Forest County Potawatomi tribal member, I know what the success of the organization means to the community, and I am deeply committed to PBDC's continued growth," Ritchie said in a statement. "I am excited to help guide the company along its planned arc of prosperity, which includes a number of growth initiatives in and around Wisconsin, and I look forward to leading a team of exceptionally skilled and proven leaders across our various investments."
In his newly expanded role, Ritchie will oversee PBDC's strategic, financial, and operational aspects, including affiliate companies including Potawatomi Federal Group, Greenfire Management Services, Data Holdings, Sagewind Development, Fireside Market, and Wgema Leasing.
Tom Boelter, chairman of the PBDC board of directors, expressed confidence in Ritchie, citing his extensive experience and contributions to the organization's growth.
Beyond PBDC, Ritchie is active in the Milwaukee business community and involved in philanthropic organizations. His achievements include being named a Top CEO by Native Business Magazine and receiving leadership awards from various associations.
PBDC, established in 2002, aims to diversify the Forest County Potawatomi Community's business interests, contributing to tribal economic growth and community betterment.
Earlier this year, PBDC opened a corporate office in downtown Milwaukee to accommodate its growing portfolio of businesses. The new space houses its new real estate development arm, Sagewind, a new electric vehicle business, and PBDC’s retail unit, which builds and operates travel center locations.
