At Franklin County, NC Economic Development, our work is powered by dedicated professionals passionate about shaping the future of our community. With diverse expertise and a shared commitment to excellence, we strive to position Franklin County as a premier destination for businesses and residents alike. Whether we are assisting with site selection, providing market insights, or fostering connections, our team is here to guide and support you every step of the way.
Barbara S. Fiedor
Director of Economic Development
Barbara S. Fiedor is the Director of Economic Development for Franklin County, NC, where she leads initiatives to drive increased economic growth and new business opportunities. Barbara launched her own full-service international business development firm in 1995, partnering with companies to craft and implement their international expansion strategies, as well as recruit foreign direct investment into Florida.
She has served as the Protocol Advisor to the Commandant of Midshipmen at the U.S. Naval Academy, taught university courses in international business and marketing in Florida, and managed high-value projects as the Region 2 Senior Project Manager for the Georgia Department of Economic Development, driving over
$841 million in new investment and creating more than 1,000 jobs across 13 counties. Barbara has also served as the Assistant Director of Economic Development for Danville, VA, and was the first Economic Development Manager for Palm Coast, FL, where she launched the city’s Office of Economic Development.
She holds a Master’s degree from the University of Miami and a Bachelor’s from the University of South Florida, is certified in Diplomatic and International Protocol, and is a candidate for IEDC Certified Economic Developer. In her free time, Barbara enjoys spending time with her three adult children, playing tennis, antiquing, and horseback riding.
Alyssa Blair Zimmerman
Economic Development Specialist
Alyssa Blair Zimmerman joined Franklin County in February 2024, bringing creative energy and community development expertise to her role as Economic Development Specialist.
Before her current position, Zimmerman served as Downtown Development Director and Executive Director of the Downtown Oxford Economic Development Corporation, where she strengthened business recruitment and retention efforts, led policy initiatives, and spearheaded large-scale community events. With a strong foundation in marketing, communications, and outreach, she excels at connecting businesses with opportunities and resources. Zimmerman holds a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill and a dual Master of Arts in International Administration & Conflict Management from UNC Greensboro and the University of Konstanz, Germany. In her personal time, she enjoys exploring local coffee shops and spending time with her husband, three dogs, and cat.