CHEYENNE, WY — After nearly seven years at the helm, Josh Dorrell announced he will step down as chief executive officer of the Wyoming Business Council (WBC). The board of directors approved his resignation at a special meeting on Oct. 14 and immediately began the search for an interim CEO, with a permanent appointment slated for the summer of 2027.
Guiding the Council Through Turbulent Times
Since taking the role in 2020, Dorrell has overseen the council’s response to the Covid‑19 pandemic, directing millions of dollars in federal assistance to keep struggling Wyoming businesses afloat. Under his leadership, the council expanded the Building Resilient Communities program, turning it into a key investment vehicle for the state, and launched initiatives such as the Wyoming Venture Capital fund and the Assessment to Action program.
Focus on Retaining Young Talent
The board highlighted Dorrell’s commitment to keeping Wyoming’s young people from leaving the state. By shifting the council’s focus from merely funding projects to building an economy where families want to stay, the organization has helped create a more sustainable, long‑term growth environment.
“Over nearly seven years, Josh has demonstrated a genuine passion for Wyoming and a steadfast commitment to the businesses and communities that make our state special,” said Derek Smith, co‑chair of the WBC Board of Directors. “His leadership has made a meaningful and lasting impact, and we are grateful for the energy, dedication and heart Josh has brought to the Wyoming Business Council and its mission.”
Dorrell echoed the board’s sentiments in a release, expressing pride in the council’s achievements and confidence in the team’s future.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built over these past few years, and proud that Wyoming has a solid foundation to build on,” Dorrell said. “What I’m most proud of is the strength, resilience and devotion of the team at the Business Council, and the committed coalition of thousands of people across Wyoming who have partnered with us in making real progress toward a bright future.”
The council’s board will now move quickly to appoint an interim president, aiming to keep momentum on ongoing projects while the comprehensive search for a permanent CEO proceeds. The organization remains a statewide champion for pro‑business legislation, offering tools and resources to help local enterprises grow and thrive.
What’s Next for the Wyoming Business Council
With Dorrell’s departure, the WBC reaffirms its dedication to fostering economic development across Wyoming’s rural and urban communities. Stakeholders can expect continued support for initiatives that promote job creation, innovation, and the retention of young talent. The council’s website provides additional information on its programs and upcoming leadership updates.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
