SHREVEPORT-MONROE, LA — North Louisiana Economic Partnership (NLEP), an Accredited Economic Development Organization, was selected by Biz Magazine’s editorial team as one of the top 14 best places to work in the Shreveport-Bossier area.  Featured in the May edition, BIZ Magazine’s fourth annual “Best Places to Work” Award honors companies of excellence that treat their employees well and serve the community.  The award celebrates companies that have strong leadership who then empower, reward, and support their employees. NLEP’s Angie White, Sr. VP of Workforce, nominated NLEP for Biz’s 2019 award.  

“We have an exceptional team at NLEP, and I really enjoy getting to work with them, said Angie White, CEcD. “Because our team is small with a big mission to meet, we have to be self-driven. I appreciate having the confidence of our President to use our professional judgment. We are encouraged to go as far as we can in our professional development, which makes our team even stronger.”

The companies are judged based on confidential online surveys from employees. The BIZ editorial board reviewed and analyzed the companies' policies and perks — everything from the make up of their employees, benefits, health initiatives, volunteerism, and team building. As a regional economic development organization that provides economic development services for 14 parishes, NLEP’s staff is dedicated to ensuring that our region fulfills its economic development potential.

“NLEP is committed to a worthwhile mission - bringing jobs and capital investment to our fourteen parish region,” said Sheena Bryant, NLEP Vice President of Business Development Strategy. “Our team works diligently to make sure we are improving our communities, which is motivating.  We take partnerships seriously and understand that our mission requires bringing a variety of stakeholders together to build a solution.  Not only does NLEP work hard to improve our community, it challenges its employees to be their best.  NLEP is more than a place to work.  It is a team, a family, and a network of support for all of its employees. “

NLEP is a recognized leader in economic development, both nationally and statewide.  NLEP was reaccredited in 2018 by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) as an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO). The AEDO certification means that NLEP displays professionalism, commitment and technical expertise in economic development. Currently, there are only three other AEDOs in Louisiana and less than 65 in the world. Additionally, NLEP ranks in the top ten globally for the number of Certified Economic Developers (CEcDs) on staff.

“NLEP is a great place to work because of our organization’s collaborative culture,” said Christine Rambo, NLEP Sr. VP of Marketing & Communications. “Our very talented team supports each other, and we’re all dedicated to bringing economic opportunities to our communities and to our region. While we work long hours, it is a fulfilling career, and there’s enough flexibility to allow our staff to pursue community service, family and individual goals. I’m proud to say I work for NLEP and with an amazing group of people!”

The company has created tremendous economic impact for the 14 parish region that it serves.  Since its founding in 2011 as a 501(c)3 organization, NLEP assisted 65 new or existing companies that created 6,676 new direct jobs and generated nearly $1.9 billion in direct capital investment over the past eight years. 

“I am very proud of our talented staff and the tremendous job they do every day,” said NLEP President Scott Martinez, CEcD. “Our organization nurtures a culture of excellence, professional accountability and self-actualization. Biz Magazine’s ‘Best Places to Work’ Award validates our core values, and I thank Biz’s editorial team for the recognition.”

Other companies also receiving Biz’s “Best Places to Work” Award include Aeon Process Equipment and Control Services, Bossier Chamber of Commerce, BRF, Citizens National Bank, Community Bank of Louisiana, Gibsland Bank and Trust, Kean Miller, Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets, Margaritaville, Origin Bank, Service Steel and Pipe, Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission, and Southland Printing Co.