Lara Fritts

Lara Fritts, CEcD, FM, is an experienced economic development professional currently serving as the Director of the Division of Economic Opportunity for Frederick County Government in Maryland since April 2023. Prior roles include Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer for Community Redevelopment, where a mission to develop sustainable communities through housing investment was emphasized. Fritts has also held significant positions such as Executive Vice President at the Greater Richmond Partnership and President and CEO of Salt Lake City Corporation's Department of Economic Development. Additionally, leadership roles included Director of Business Development at Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP, and President/CEO of the Annapolis Economic Development Corporation. Fritts began their career as Executive Director of the Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation, driving revitalization efforts in Virginia. Academic qualifications include a Master of Science in Urban Studies-Economic Development from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and a BS in Regional Analysis - Economic Development from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.