JobsOhio Names Tim Derickson New Director of Food and Agribusiness

Former Ohio State Representative Joins from the Ohio Department of Agriculture

JobsOhio announced the hiring of Tim Derickson, a longtime agribusiness entrepreneur and former state legislator, as its new Director of Food and Agribusiness. In his new role, Derickson will oversee a sector that includes hundreds of companies that cultivate, process, package, distribute and market foods and beverages enjoyed around the world.

“Tim understands Ohio and the incredible impact that the food and agribusiness sector has on our economy,” said Dana Saucier, JobsOhio vice president and head of economic development. “There is incredible opportunity to continue growing food and agribusiness jobs and investment in every corner of the state, and we are fortunate to have a person with Tim’s experience to move these critical efforts forward.”

Derickson comes to JobsOhio from the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA), where he worked as the Assistant Director since 2017. He formerly served as ODA’s Interim Director. 

"JobsOhio has proven its ability to retain Ohio business as well as attract new investment to Ohio,” said Derickson. “I look forward to developing strategic partnerships to develop more opportunities in the food and agribusiness sector for Ohioans.”

Food and agribusiness annually contributes $124 billion to Ohio’s economy, and food manufacturing contributes nearly $16.4 billion in GSP to Ohio’s economy.  

Prior to his time at ODA, Derickson served the communities of Butler County’s 53rd District, from 2009 – 2016 as their state representative, where he led numerous workforce development efforts. This includes supporting the creation and development of JobsOhio in 2011 as a key economic driver for his district and across the state. While in office, he authored HB 89, which established “Ohio Agriculture Week,” an annual week of recognition dedicated to the state’s largest industry.

Derickson will replace Joe Needham who has served as Director since 2017.