Melissa serves as the Director of Operations for FloridaWest Economic Development Alliance, a
501c(6) organization whose sole mission is to create and expand economic prosperity in the
Greater Pensacola area. Her primary responsibilities with FloridaWest Economic Development Alliance include overseeing HR functions, analyzing and improving organizational processes, and working to improve quality, productivity, and efficiency. She brings an extensive and diverse employment background in operations management, human resources, and finance.

As a result of her passion for Economic Development and Organizational Management, Melissa serves on the Board of Directors of Be Ready Alliance Coordinating for Emergencies (BRACE), the Hobbs Middle School Advisory Council, and is the Economic Development Coordinator for Pensacola Young Professionals. She is also a volunteer on the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). Melissa is a 2019 InWeekly Rising Star and is also a current member of the Leadership Pensacola Class of 2020. Each commitment is a reflection of Melissa’s desire to help local businesses succeed, families prosper, and our community blossom.

Before coming to the Pensacola area in 2014 from Norfolk, VA, Melissa worked in government contracting and finance. She possesses a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Oklahoma Baptist University and a Master’s degree in Business from Indiana Wesleyan University. Melissa is a native of Monroe, Louisiana and grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana. She enjoys traveling, dancing (especially the Argentine Tango and West Coast Swing), learning about different cultures, and seeking adventure in the outdoors with her family.