Meredith Wilson to lead Franklin-Simpson Industrial Authority

FRANKLIN, Ky. (WNKY) — The Franklin-Simpson Industrial Authority has selected Meredith Wilson as its next executive director. Wilson will begin the role Sept. 28, according to a release from the authority.

Wilson previously spent 13 years at the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, where she negotiated more than $6 billion in industrial revenue bond incentives and served as the chamber’s main liaison to federal, state and local elected officials. Wilson also led SCK LAUNCH, a K-12 workforce development program that reached more than 24,000 students.

“Meredith brings exactly the combination of experience and relationships this position requires,” said Steve Compton, chairman of the Franklin-Simpson Industrial Authority Board of Directors. “Her track record in site development, incentive negotiations, and workforce partnerships is outstanding, and her collaborative approach is a natural fit for the way our community works. We are confident she will build on the Authority’s strong foundation and lead our next phase of growth.”

According to the release, Wilson’s main priorities will include recruiting new industries, retaining and expanding existing employers and developing industrial sites for the city and county.

“I am honored to join the Franklin-Simpson Industrial Authority and to serve a community with such tremendous momentum,” Wilson said. “Franklin-Simpson’s location along the I-65 corridor, its rail access, and its strong workforce pipeline position it well for continued industrial growth. I look forward to working with the Board, our local partners, and area employers to bring new investment and new jobs to Franklin and Simpson County.”

The authority said more than $605 million in new investment and nearly 1,000 new jobs were announced in 2025.