FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Mike Malone has been named vice chancellor for economic development. He will begin April 18, 2022.
“We are very excited to welcome Mike to the University of Arkansas,” said interim Chancellor Charles Robinson. “Our ambition is to expand economic opportunity and prosperity in Arkansas through talent development, the deployment of innovative research and technologies, community engagement and place-making strategies — and to be the first choice for industry partnerships and collaborations. Mike has been a great partner and supporter of the U of A for many years, and he brings a wealth of experience and the drive and ability to make the Division of Economic Development a force for Arkansas’ greater good.”
Malone brings nearly three decades of experience building coalitions and partnerships to advance community and economic development opportunities. Since 2016 he has served as vice president for corporate and community affairs for Runway Group, overseeing a wide range of community development projects and direct investments in Northwest Arkansas, including workforce development, talent attraction and business recruitment, outdoor recreation and philanthropy. From 2006-2016, he served as president and CEO of the Northwest Arkansas Council, leading the creation and implementation of regional growth and development strategies that resulted in significant employment gains, economic growth and improved quality of life in Northwest Arkansas.
Prior to his work in Arkansas, Malone held senior staff leadership positions in the White House, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Senate, and the House of…