Ulster County Names Leslie Wellington
Interim Director of Economic Development
KINGSTON, NY – Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger recently announced a leadership transition in the county’s Department of Economic Development with the appointment of Leslie Wellington to serve as Interim Director.
An Olivebridge resident and current Board Chair of the Ulster County Economic Development Alliance (UCEDA), Ms. Wellington brings nearly two decades of experience in place‑based community and economic development to the Department.
During this interim period, Vice Chair Brian Cahill will serve as Chair of UCEDA, while Ms. Wellington will remain a member of the board. Ulster County Exec. Metzger thanked Joshua Stratton-Rayner for his service as Director, and prior service as Deputy Director, and wished him the best as he pursues other opportunities. Mr. Stratton-Rayner began serving as Interim Director on Jan. 1, 2026.
Under her guidance, UCEDA has advanced complex redevelopment projects, played a key role in shaping lending policies for the soon-to-be-launched Revolving Loan Fund, and advocated for and supported local businesses. She is also playing a lead role in planning for the 2026 Ulster County Economic Futures Summit, scheduled for October, which will bring together employers, educators, workforce organizations, government leaders, and community partners to strengthen workforce pathways and support the county’s key industries.
“Leslie has already made a tremendous impact in Ulster County through her leadership at UCEDA and her work shaping the Economic Futures Summit planned for the fall,” said Ulster County Exec. Metzger. “She brings a wealth of national and regional experience and a deep commitment to collaboration and community. We are thrilled that she has agreed to step into this role and lead the Department of Economic Development team, and I look forward to working with her to support our key industries, bolster economic development, and strengthen workforce pathways in Ulster County.”
Prior to her work in Ulster County, Wellington was the Founding Executive Director of the Urban Manufacturing Alliance, a national nonprofit that became a leading voice for manufacturing as a strategy for equitable economic development, quality jobs, and resilient communities. Earlier in her career, she served as Chief of Staff within the New York City Council and also worked in the New York City Mayor’s Office of Industrial and Manufacturing Businesses, helping to launch the Industrial Business Zones Program and supporting business retention and expansion efforts.
Published: July 22, 2026.