Michael Oates, President and CEO

Mr. Oates is the President and CEO of Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation. He is the former Managing Partner for Bellefield Development Partners LLC, a $500 million culinary campus located directly across the street from The Culinary Institute of America. Prior to joining Bellefield, Mr. Oates was the CEO of Hudson River Ventures, a small business investment fund focused on Food & Beverage, Tourism, Hospitality, 3D Printing and Innovative Technology with investment projects located in the Hudson Valley. Mr. Oates also served as Vice President for Empire State Development Corporation.

In addition to these roles, Mr. Oates was selected for 2024 City & State Magazine’s Hudson Valley Power 100, appointed to the New York State Tourism Advisory Council and currently serves as Vice Chairman for Abilities First.

Brigham Farrand, Executive Vice President, Real Estate & Development

Prior to joining HVEDC, Brigham was the Director of Business Development at Baxter Building Co., where he led growth initiatives and strategic partnerships for the firm. During his tenure, Baxter, in collaboration with regional developers, helped deliver over 1,000 units of housing, construct world-class hospitality destinations such as Inness and the Klocke Estate, and advance several prominent projects including the Regional Food Bank of New York’s Distribution Center in Montgomery and the Galvan Foundation’s Depot District in Hudson. In this role, Brigham demonstrated a deep understanding of both public and private markets, as well as the critical components required to successfully deliver complex development projects throughout the Hudson Valley and New York State.

Sarah Lee, Executive Vice President, Strategic Initiatives

Prior to joining HVEDC or Sarah Lee currently the Chief Executive Officer of Think Dutchess and the Executive Director of the Dutchess County IDA), where she oversaw the economic development programs for Dutchess County, New York. She led the organization on impactful work, including recognition from national and international organizations including the International Economic Development Council, New York State Economic Development Corporation, Trade & Industry Magazine, Business Facilities and Public Relations Society of America. As CEO of Think Dutchess she has facilitated over $5 billion in private investment resulting in the retention and creation of over 15,000 jobs in Dutchess County. She is currently Chair of Board at the New York State Economic Development Council and Chair of the Future Trends Committee for the International Economic Development Council.