Former McKinney EDC leader Michael Talley named Plano’s economic development director

Michael Talley, former senior vice president of the McKinney Economic Development Corp., has been named Plano’s new Director of Economic Development, according to a Jan. 27 city news release.

Talley brings more than a decade of experience in economic development and business recruitment, according to the release.

Talley will succeed Doug McDonald, who was recently promoted to Deputy City Manager overseeing Development Services departments, including economic development.

Career history

Talley joined McKinney’s EDC in January 2022, where he helped attract new businesses to the city and oversaw several high-value projects.

Prior to joining McKinney’s EDC, Talley served as Economic Development Director for Denton County, working with more than 40 communities on industrial and corporate development projects. Talley also created the OPEN Grants Program, which distributed over $39 million in funding to support businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the release.

He also previously served as the Economic Development Director in the city of Keene for four years.

Looking ahead

In his new position, Talley will oversee Plano’s economic development initiatives and Visit Plano, the city’s marketing and management branch, according to the release.

Talley is set to begin his new position Feb. 16, the release states.