The Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation (PGCEDC) has appointed Ingrid S. Watson as its new president and chief executive officer, effective January 16, 2026, marking a leadership transition rooted in institutional knowledge and long-standing public service.
Watson joins PGCEDC following her tenure as a Prince George’s County Council member representing District 4, where she advanced policies aimed at expanding economic opportunity, strengthening workforce pipelines, and supporting infrastructure investment and community well-being. Her appointment also represents a return to the organization: earlier in her career, Watson served in PGCEDC’s Workforce Services Division prior to its transition to Employ Prince George’s, helping shape workforce programs designed to connect residents with employment opportunities while supporting business growth.
“Ingrid Watson brings a deep understanding of Prince George’s County and a strong record of public service to this role,” said Orlan Johnson, chair of the PGCEDC board of directors. “Her prior experience within PGCEDC, combined with her leadership on the County Council and her deep knowledge of workforce development and economic policy, provides valuable perspective as we continue our work to support businesses, create jobs, and promote inclusive economic growth.”
Watson brings more than three decades of experience spanning local government, economic development, workforce initiatives, and government affairs. In addition to her service on the County Council, she previously served as an at-large council member for the City of Bowie and as an elected member of the Prince George’s County Democratic Central Committee. Her professional background also includes roles as government affairs manager at Children’s National Hospital and outreach and communications manager for Employ Prince George’s.
During her time on the County Council, Watson was known for a focus on responsive constituent services and for championing initiatives related to workforce and education pipelines, environmental sustainability, fiscal responsibility, public health, and small business support. She chaired the Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee, helping oversee a $5.8 billion county budget, and served on committees covering education, workforce development, health, human services, and public safety.
“I am honored to return to the Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation and to serve as president and CEO,” Watson said. “I understand the critical role the organization plays in supporting existing businesses, attracting new businesses, and expanding opportunities across our county.”
As president and CEO, Watson will lead PGCEDC’s strategic direction and day-to-day operations, with a focus on business attraction and retention, entrepreneurship, and cross-sector partnerships. Her leadership is expected to reinforce Prince George’s County’s positioning as a competitive and inclusive destination for investment and job creation.
