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New Alliance CEO Allison J.H. Thompson Finds Treasure in Jefferson County

3 min read
A native of northern New Jersey, Allison J.H. Thompson spent her career in Texas economic development before moving this month to Pine Bluff. She was economic development director for the city of Cedar Hill, near Dallas, for 12 years.

Thompson landed in Texas in 1977 to attend Texas Christian University, where she earned a degree in criminal justice. She added a master’s degree in urban affairs from the University of Texas at Arlington. She is certified as an economic developer by the International Development Council and as an economic development finance professional by the National Development Council.

Thompson took over as Jefferson County’s economic development chief last week in Pine Bluff, succeeding Lou Ann Nisbett, who retired.

Why did you choose Jefferson County after years in suburban Dallas?

I chose to pursue the Alliance position in Jefferson County because I was struck by the structure of the Alliance, the existing businesses and infrastructure, the efforts already underway and the spirit of collaboration. Frankly, the passion and commitment that came through in the documents and every conversation were the major influence in my decision to make a move from a region I have called home since 1977.

Since arriving, I have not been disappointed. Everyone has been welcoming and supportive and I am enjoying getting to know Jefferson County.

How do you see revitalization efforts going in Pine Bluff?

Pine Bluff has strong bones and a rich history on which to build. The strides being made are very encouraging; the most recent large investments in the hospital, public natatorium and library improve quality of life for current and future residents. The large casino development will bring people, jobs and revenues from those visiting from outside, and will help bring smaller retail and service developments along as well.

Additionally, the investments being made by industry, creating new primary jobs, will provide fuel to the growth. People with good jobs buy houses and shop. In his book, “The Coming Jobs War,” Jim Clifton cites data that shows the main desire of people around the world is for a “good job.” A rule of thumb is that “retail follows rooftops” and rooftops follow jobs.

What potential do you see for new business and entrepreneurship in an area fighting population decline?

In real estate, the old expression on attracting businesses was “location, location, location.” In this day and age, businesses still need the right location, due to infrastructure and markets, but talent has become as big a driving force. Jefferson County has both, and more talented people are graduating every year. So we need quality-of-life measures and amenities, as well as the jobs, to keep people here and attract new residents from other areas. A nice offshoot is that talented people who wish to own their own businesses will find niches to fill as entrepreneurs.

What are common mistakes in business recruiting, and how do you avoid them?

The biggest mistake made in business recruiting is not being honest — exaggerating or covering up. Real estate, and by extension economic development, is a relationship business. All marketing materials, promotional efforts and conversations must be undergirded by honesty. During the vetting process, as a business is doing due diligence, the truth will come out and relationships are destroyed when trust is broken.

As the Alliance seeks to recruit businesses, we are forming long-term relationships with the businesses and site selectors who help them find the best location. We want to help them find the best location in Jefferson County and then help the businesses be successful here over the long term.

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