Head of resource development moving to private sector

Waterloo, ON – Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA) has spawned another entrepreneur, this time from the ranks of its own management team. MEDA, which prides itself on creating business solutions to poverty, has accepted the resignation effective April 30 of Ed Epp, vice president of resource development, "with great reluctance," said president Allan Sauder.

Epp joined MEDA in 1998 as director of international operations, managing programs in Mozambique, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Haiti, Nicaragua, Romania and Bolivia, as well as exploring new programs. In 2003, Ed moved into the newly created position of director of new business development and strategic planning, and the following year was appointed vice president for resource development.

"Ed's contributions to MEDA have been many," said Sauder. "At a recent meeting of MEDA’s board of directors, a resolution was passed thanking Ed for his hard work and commitment to MEDA over the past nine and a half years and wishing him well as he moves into the world of business. Through his creativity and resourcefulness, Ed leaves MEDA with the launch of MEDA Trust (www.medatrust.org), a consistent marketing image, and record levels of contributions, as well as a number of innovative programs throughout the world.”

While Epp has decided to go into business and will be joining TourMagination on May 1, MEDA is pleased that he will maintain a business relationship with MEDA in arranging and leading tours for its members.

"My passion and belief in MEDA remains stronger than ever," said Epp, "and I look forward to being a real MEDA member. My decision to resign is due only to opportunities to try out the business world – putting into action my words and theories. I am committed to remaining a MEDA supporter, member and advocate."

Recruitment for this position is currently under way.