Mark Gordon, new chief of economic development and planning for Butler County, talks to people at a meet-and-greet at the government center on Wednesday.

Butler County’s economic development partners agree Mark Gordon is the right person to be the county chief of economic development and planning.

Ken Raybuck, executive director of the Community Development Corporation of Butler County, said Gordon, 59, the retired AK Steel Butler Works general manager, is suited for the role.

“Mark is an excellent choice for the chief of economic development position for the county,” Raybuck said.

He cited Gordon’s work history.

“He ran the Butler AK Steel plant, one of the largest employers in Butler County,” Raybuck said.

He said Gordon’s time on the CDC board also benefits the county.

“He’s very familiar with what it takes to bring businesses in and work together in groups in a coordinated manner to attract business,” Raybuck said.

Stan Kosciuszko, president of the Butler County Chamber of Commerce, said Gordon is the one who can tackle the job’s duties.

“The chamber was very pleased,” Kosciuszko said. “I think they hired the right person.”

He said replacing a planning director post with one that incorporates economic development would benefit the county.

“It’s a very positive step,” Kosciuszko said.

Nick Neupauer, president of Butler County Community College, was a fellow CDC board member with Gordon.

“I was impressed with Mark in his previous role,” Neupauer said. “He certainly has a passion for Butler County.”

Neupauer credited the county for expanding the role of the planning chief.

“This position will move the county forward under the direction of the county commissioners and unify all of the county’s partners,” he said.

Rick Grossman of Rick Grossman Community Planning Consultant, who is a consultant for the county planning commission also lauded Gordon’s selection.

“Not only does he have the credentials, but he has extensive time in Butler County,” Grossman said.