In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Samantha Jefferson, Managing Director of the Site Selectors Guild. This episode continues the relationship between the Develop This! Podcast and the Site Selectors Guild, offering listeners direct insight into how site selectors think, lead, and shape economic development outcomes.

Samantha shares her unique career journey and how early leadership experiences helped shape her holistic approach to site selection. The conversation explores why community understanding is just as important as data, how the Guild promotes integrity and objectivity in the profession, and why member feedback is driving new initiatives—including the launch of new industry certifications.

Dennis and Samantha also discuss the realities of site readiness, the importance of speculative investment, the Guild's international expansion, and how partnerships and conferences are strengthening engagement across the profession.

Key Takeaways

• Samantha's diverse background shapes her holistic view of site selection
• Leadership lessons can come from early experiences, including youth organizations
• Understanding communities is critical to successful economic development
• The Site Selectors Guild promotes integrity and objectivity in site selection
• Member feedback guides the Guild's future direction
• New certifications help define professional standards for site selectors
• International expansion reflects the realities of a global economy
• Site readiness requires careful planning and speculative investment
• Partnerships enhance learning and engagement opportunities
• Success as Managing Director means strong membership and impactful collaboration

Snacks With Surpise

Join us in Atlanta for the 2026 Guild Spring Conference!

Mark your calendar and prepare for an unparalleled experience at the 2026 Guild Spring Conference with 50 top site selection consultants and members of the Site Selectors Guild taking place March 23-25, 2026 in the vibrant heart of Atlanta, Georgia! With a ratio of eight EDO attendees to one Guild member, this is your exclusive opportunity to connect directly with the world's top location strategy experts and economic developers from across the US and abroad who are all shaping the future of site selection and global investment. The 2026 Guild Spring Conference will bring together the brightest minds in the industry for dynamic panel discussions, interactive roundtables, and high-impact networking sessions—all designed to spark new ideas, foster meaningful connections, and drive real results. Whether you are looking to showcase your community, understand the latest trends, or build relationships that matter, there is no better place to do it than at the Guild Spring Conference.