The Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation (LVEDC) has hired a veteran journalist with more than two decades of professional experience to lead the organization’s research efforts.

Nicole Radzievich Mertz has become the new LVEDC Director of Research (photo courtesy Marco Calderon).

Nicole Radzievich Mertz has been hired as LVEDC Director of Research, where she will be responsible for tracking Lehigh Valley’s economic vital signs and completing research projects to market the Lehigh Valley to businesses.

“We are thrilled to have Nicole join the LVEDC team,” said LVEDC President & CEO Don Cunningham. “It’s like landing a first round draft pick. Nicole has a deep knowledge of the Lehigh Valley and the experience and skills to help us understand our economy better and how we compare to our competition.”

Radzievich Mertz has 22 years of experience as a reporter, all of which covering the Lehigh Valley. She spent 18 years at The Morning Call, most recently covering the city of Bethlehem, and before that spent three years at The Express-Times.

“I had the privilege on reporting on Lehigh Valley for 22 years, chronicling the region’s growth and community during a very dynamic period,” Radzievich Mertz said. “I’m now excited for the opportunity to advocate for a region I’ve come to love.”

Radzievich Mertz will report to LVEDC Vice President of Marketing and Communications George Lewis as part of an organizational restructuring implemented this year. Lewis previously held the position of LVEDC Director of Research and Analysis before he was promoted to his current role in January.

Radzievich Mertz, who grew up in Pottsville, Pa., covered local development issues, city government, and national politics during her time as a journalist. She graduated from Pennsylvania State University with degrees in journalism and political science, and completed a media studies program at The University of Manchester, U.K.

The role of LVEDC Director of Research involves tracking economic data, preparing regular research reports, conducting regular surveys of investor companies, responding to requests for information from outside sources, research collaborations with external partners, and collaborating regularly with LVEDC’s communications and marketing divisions.