Our Staff

Rick Dickinson

Executive Director & COO

As Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Rick Dickinson is responsible for the administration of the Greater Dubuque Development Corporation operations. This includes the successful implementation of our workforce development and business retention and expansion projects. Rick is also the principal liaison between the City of Dubuque and the State of Iowa on issues relating to economic development incentive programs.

Mike Blouin

President

As President, Mike Blouin manages new business recruitment for Greater Dubuque Development. His primary responsibility is to execute our regional and national marketing strategy by building relationships through corporate site visits, trade shows, and conferences in order to attract new business to the Greater Dubuque area.

Daniel McDonald

Vice President of Existing Business

Vice President of Existing Business Daniel McDonald is the primary contact for existing business and industry. He is responsible for working with these employers as they expand in the Dubuque area. Dan also leads our InfoAction Program - one-on-one contacts with local business leaders - which greatly enhance our ability to identify opportunities within the local economy. Dan serves as liaison with state and local development organizations and associations.

Sarah Harris

Vice President of Workforce Operations

As the Vice President of Workforce Operations, Sarah Harris is in charge of the Greater Dubuque Development workforce recruitment campaign. This includes working closely with local human resource representatives and our local higher education institutions to promote the AccessDubuqueJobs.com web site. She also promotes Greater Dubuque as a Destination for Opportunity to job seekers and local employers.

Karen Kluesner

Director of Operations

Director of Operations Karen Kluesner manages the daily operations of Greater Dubuque Development, including payroll, accounts payable, and investments. She provides support and assistance to Rick Dickinson and Mike Blouin and manages their schedules. Karen oversees all of Greater Dubuque's events and activities and manages all computer maintenance and upgrades.

Karen Adams

Information Director

As Information Director, Karen Adams develops the marketing materials used to promote the Greater Dubuque area, including print collateral, location advertising, social networking sites, and Greater Dubuque's web site. Additionally, she creates customized proposals and communications to site selectors and real estate professionals to support National Marketing activities. Karen also researches and maintains demographic and statistical data, as well as building and site information.

Shannon Gaherty

Newcomer Relations Coordinator

As Newcomer Relations Coordinator, Shannon is responsible for coordinating one-stop concierge service for newcomers relocating to Dubuque to ensure that individuals and families who have chosen Dubuque to live, work, and play are not only welcomed into the community, but are also equipped with the knowledge they need to make the most of their experience. Additionally, Shannon is the primary contact for Opportunity Packs and other relocation information for the Greater Dubuque area.

Mary Konrardy

Office Assistant

Office Assistant Mary Konrardy works closely with Karen Kluesner on daily office activities, including office correspondence, scheduling, the maintenance of information databases utilized by staff, along with many other duties. Mary is also the welcoming voice you hear when calling the offices of Greater Dubuque Development.

Shannon Gaherty, your Newcomer Relations Coordinator, understands challenges in relocating to a new community and can help you make a smooth transition. Part of Greater Dubuque's workforce initiative, these services are available at no charge. Contact her today to begin planning your move to Dubuque.

Shannon Gaherty
Newcomer Relations Coordinator
563.557.9049