TALLAHASSEE – Today, Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) Executive Director Jesse Panuccio named Karl Blischke as Director of DEO’s Division of Strategic Business Development (SBD).

“Karl’s deep experience and stellar reputation in the economic development field make him an ideal candidate to lead DEO’s business development efforts. He has served the Department well for many years and has helped our economic development process become more effective, accountable, and transparent. I am confident he will continue to bring positive change through this new leadership role,” said Executive Director Panuccio.

“I am pleased to have served the Department since its creation in 2011 and am thrilled to have the opportunity to serve in this new capacity as we continue to work towards our vision of having the nation’s top performing economy and becoming the best state in the nation to start or grow a business and to get a great job,” said Mr. Blischke.

Mr. Blischke has served as Chief of DSBD’s Bureau of Compliance and Accountability since 2013. Karl is a veteran leader at DEO, having previously served as Coordinator of SBD’s Office of Business Development and Support and as Chief Analyst for rural economic development and small business programs with the Governor’s Office of Tourism, Trade, and Economic Development.  Prior to joining Florida’s economic-development community, Karl held several management posts in the state government of Pennsylvania.  He received his BA from the University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh and his MA from Michigan State University. 

Mr. Blischke’s new role is effective immediately.

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