BETHEL – The Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation (HVEDC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Eric Frances, CEO of Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, to its Board of Directors. Frances brings a distinguished record of financial leadership and cultural stewardship to the board, further strengthening HVEDC’s mission of advancing economic growth across the seven-county Hudson Valley region.

“The Hudson Valley is one of the most dynamic and culturally rich regions in the country, and, on behalf of Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, I’m honored to join the Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation,” said Frances. “I look forward to working alongside fellow members to help elevate the area, strengthen its economy, and continue developing the extraordinary cultural, environmental, and entrepreneurial resources that make this place so special.”

“Eric is a proven leader whose financial expertise and deep commitment to the Hudson Valley make him a tremendous addition to our board,” said Mike Oates, President & CEO of HVEDC. “His leadership at one of the region’s most iconic cultural institutions, combined with his work championing tourism in the Hudson Valley, will help us continue to attract investment, support business growth, and elevate the Hudson Valley as a destination for industry and innovation.”

Before being named CEO in January 2020, Frances served as the Chief Financial Officer and General Manager of Bethel Woods and was responsible for all the organization’s operations, logistics, and finances. Prior to that, he was the Director of Financial Reporting for Mediacom Communications Corp., the 8th largest cable television operator in the U.S., and the Operational Controller for Sybari Software, a division of Microsoft. 

After graduating from Babson College, Frances was a senior auditor for PwC within the Technology Information Communication and Entertainment practice. He is a Certified Public Accountant, Certified Internal Auditor and the Chair of the Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association.