Economic group hires new leader

Jerry Meerkatz has been appointed as the new president/chief executive officer for Montana West Economic Development in Kalispell.

Meerkatz will start work at the economic development organization on Monday. He will succeed Kellie Danielson, who is moving out of state later this month.

“After intensive review of candidates from throughout the United States, including many very qualified local individuals, we were pleased to offer the position of president to Jerry Meerkatz,” said Rick Weaver, chairman of the Montana West Board of Directors as well as its Hiring Committee.

Meerkatz brings over 35 years of management experience to the leadership of Montana West. Much of his career was spent in the technology industry at companies such as Compaq Computer, Hewlett-Packard and Infowave Software.

Meerkatz is a graduate of Flathead High School and a longtime community member of the Flathead Valley.

“We are very confident that Jerry will lead the MWED team to the next level and be a very competent replacement for Kellie, who did a great job leading MWED over the past seven years,” Weaver said.

Located in downtown Kalispell, Montana West Economic Development is a nonprofit organization staffed by professionals who connect businesses to valuable resources and relationships. The organization collaborates with business professionals, entrepreneurs, developers, government agencies and community organizations to strengthen the Flathead Valley’s business and lifestyle assets.