CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The Wyoming Business Council (WBC) is undergoing a significant leadership transition following the announcement that CEO Josh Dorrell will step down from his post. The decision, finalized during a special board meeting on Oct. 14, marks the end of a transformative four-year tenure for the state’s primary economic development organization. The WBC Board of Directors has already initiated a search for an interim leader, with a permanent successor expected to be named by the summer of 2027.
Dorrell’s departure concludes a period defined by rapid adaptation and structural modernization. Since taking the helm in 2020, he has been responsible for steering the organization through the volatile economic climate caused by the global pandemic, a period that required the council to pivot quickly to handle millions of dollars in federal business relief funds.
Economic Modernization and Tech Integration
Beyond emergency relief efforts, Dorrell focused heavily on integrating data-driven strategies and modern economic frameworks into Wyoming’s business landscape. Under his guidance, the council launched high-impact initiatives such as the Wyoming Venture Capital program and the “Assessment to Action” framework. These programs were designed to move the state beyond traditional project funding toward a more dynamic, investment-heavy model.
The WBC also utilized these initiatives to foster a culture of technological innovation. By streamlining how state resources are allocated, Dorrell’s team sought to create an ecosystem that supports not just legacy industries, but also emerging startups and tech-adjacent enterprises. This shift was part of a larger, long-term effort to diversify the state’s economy, making it more resilient to the boom-and-bust cycles that have historically characterized the region’s market.
Addressing the Migration Challenge
Perhaps the most significant legacy of Dorrell’s time as CEO was his focus on human capital. The board specifically highlighted his efforts to combat the “brain drain” phenomenon, where young professionals often leave the state in search of opportunities elsewhere. Dorrell shifted the organization’s core philosophy, pivoting from a primary focus on infrastructure projects to building an economic environment that appeals to the next generation of Wyoming residents.
By fostering a business climate that provides stability and long-term career prospects, the council aimed to convince young talent that Wyoming could serve as a permanent base for their personal and professional ambitions. The board’s sentiment reflected this success, noting that the groundwork laid by Dorrell has provided a “solid foundation” for future economic growth.
The Search for New Leadership
The upcoming transition period is viewed by the board as an opportunity to build upon the momentum of the last seven years. Derek Smith, co-chair of the WBC Board of Directors, praised Dorrell for the “energy, dedication, and heart” he brought to the mission, emphasizing that the council remains committed to its core goal of promoting pro-business legislation and local growth.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built,” Dorrell said in a statement following the announcement. “The future of the organization and of Wyoming is very bright, and I know this team will continue to play a key role moving forward.”
As the WBC begins its search for an interim president, industry observers will be watching to see if the council continues its current trajectory of digital transformation and venture-focused investment. With a search for a permanent CEO extending into 2027, the board has made it clear that they are looking for a candidate capable of sustaining the long-term vision of a modern, stable, and attractive Wyoming economy. For businesses and stakeholders following these changes, updates regarding the leadership transition will be posted periodically on the Wyoming Business Council’s official website.
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