Will County Gazette

Joliet, IL has announced the appointment of a new Economic Development Director to spearhead the city's initiative to become a regional leader in attracting new businesses and jobs. Paulina Martinez, currently serving as the Business Development Director for World Business in Chicago, has accepted this newly defined role effective May 20, 2024.

"Paulina has extensive experience not only in business development but also in municipal government which will make her transition to the city easier," stated Beatty. "Her responsibilities among many, include being the City’s business liaison and first point of contact for existing and prospective business owners seeking to locate to Joliet."

Martinez is a lifelong resident of Joliet with a Master of Arts in Urban Planning and Policy from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a Bachelor of Arts in Sports, Recreation and Tourism from the University of St. Francis. She is also a certified planner from the American Institute of Certified Planners and serves as Vice President of the Joliet Latino Economic Development Association (LEDA).

In addition to Martinez's appointment, Beatty announced that Rosemaria DiBenedetto will fill the new position of Media Engagement & Communications Director. DiBenedetto is a public relations executive who has been managing communication matters for Mayor Terry D’Arcy.

"We interviewed every candidate that applied and met the minimum qualifications, but Rosemaria had the most experience in local government operations and public relations experience," stated Beatty. "Rosemaria has been advising municipal leaders and involved in local governments for over 35 years. The city needs a strong voice to serve as the city’s spokesperson while working with myself, the mayor, city council, department heads and others to handle the influx of media requests while promoting the good work we are doing on behalf of the residents," Beatty added.

DiBenedetto brings with her an extensive background in government operations, crisis management, media training, public affairs, and administrative services. She holds a Masters in Public and Social Administration with an emphasis in Local Government from Brunel University of West London, in the United Kingdom and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from DePaul University in Chicago.