RAM Director Steps Down

[TheCat]

Bennett said she's leaving for personal reasons, clarifying that the decision wasn't a sudden one.
"I just made the decision that it's time to move on and explore new things," Bennett said.

She said that in the years since she's started at RAM, Jacksonville has changed significantly, especially when it comes to the amount of events taking place on weekends.

"I think it can be argued that since then, Jacksonville has become an event and festival town, and it wasn't the case before," Bennett said. "With that, RAM has had the challenge of staying relevant considering all of the things to do in Jacksonville."

She's spearheaded major changes at RAM, including the switch to a producer-only farmer's market, which was rolled out last year.

She said, in addition to that change, she is particularly proud of events like the River Ruckus, a collaboration with the St. Johns Riverkeeper, as well as increasing the focus on supporting locally owned small businesses through promotions like Small Business Saturday.
Bennett said she sees her successor bringing a new approach and energy to the progress RAM has already made.

"I'm looking forward to seeing what kind of energy and enthusiasm my successor can bring and what new ideas and programs they implement," Bennett said.

The search for a successor starts immediately, and RAM is taking applications until May 16. She said a new successor probably won't be in place before mid-June.

Bennett will remain at RAM during the transition, to ensure a smooth transition for her successor. She said she thinks cross-training will be valuable for the new director.

After that, Bennett said she will be taking some time to explore new options, but traveling will be a focus.


http://www.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/news/2016/05/03/ram-director-krysten-bennett-to-step-down.html