Alliance names Lori Dukes new president/CEO

Lori Dukes has been selected as the new president and CEO of the Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance. She will succeed Charlie Sparks, who is set to retire as president and CEO on Oct. 31.

Dukes brings to her new role nearly two decades of experience in operations, workforce development and business development. She joined the Alliance in October 2021 as manager of economic development and Inventrek Technology Park.

In her time at the Alliance, Dukes has focused on providing local businesses with resources that will help them compete and thrive in today’s economy. She has also led workforce development initiatives, including working toward programs that provide the future workforce with the soft and hard skills sought by today’s employers.

“In this new role, I am looking forward to leading such an impactful organization during what is proving to be an exciting time in Kokomo’s history,” Dukes said, noting the $2.5 billion electric vehicle battery plant to be constructed in Kokomo by StarPlus Energy, the joint venture of Stellantis and Samsung SDI. “The battery plant will bring a wealth of opportunities, and the greater Kokomo area has a solid foundation on which to grow thanks in no small part to the Alliance’s efforts.”

Alliance Board Chairman Robb Blume is confident that Dukes is well-suited to lead the Alliance.

“The Alliance board firmly believes that Lori is the right person to guide our community’s ongoing economic development and placemaking initiatives,” Blume said. “There is so much opportunity before us, and we know Lori’s skills and experience will help drive long-term growth for the greater Kokomo community.”

Dukes is a Kokomo native who resides in Howard County and is a graduate of Indiana University Kokomo.

Sparks will remain under contract to continue the Alliance’s assistance with the battery plant development and pursuit of a hotel conference center in downtown Kokomo.

“We are thankful for Charlie’s guidance over the course of his career not only with the Alliance but with the Indiana Economic Development Corp. as well,” Blume said. “We continue to be thankful for his willingness to guide this leadership transition.”