Former Executive Director and Founder of the Des Moines Social Club, Zachary Mannheimer, will join McClure Engineering Company (MEC), a Clive-based Civil Engineering firm, to bring a focus on community planning and economic development in-house.
“My work at MEC will begin with Creative Placemaking for rural communities with the goal of helping them achieve economic and population growth through cultural and entrepreneurial amenities, concepts, and catalytic projects,” said Mannheimer. “My work will expand beyond Iowa, but will likely focus on Iowa and the surrounding Midwestern states. I am excited to be part of the MEC team focused every day on unique solutions for communities to enable growth and opportunities.”
Mannheimer has served as Vice President of Creative Placemaking with Iowa Business Growth since January 2016, after spending eight years with the Des Moines Social Club. Working primarily in rural and underserved areas of Iowa, Mannheimer and the Iowa Business Growth team created economic development and population growth in targeted regions across the State. The actionable steps included, among others, cultural amenities, housing projects, and incentive packages to attract and retain young people to rural Iowa.
“Iowa Business Growth Company is excited that Zachary will continue and expand the work we started here at Iowa Business Growth Company, focusing on development in rural communities in Iowa,” explained Daniel T. Robeson, President of Iowa Business Growth Company. “We look forward to a future partnership with McClure Engineering Company focused on developing communities across Iowa.”
Mannheimer will begin his new position at McClure Engineering Company on March 20th working directly with President Paul Trombino III, former Director of the Iowa DOT.
“Zachary brings unique skills and experience to our company and tremendous value to our clients focused on building strong communities,” said Paul Trombino III, President of McClure Engineering Company. “He will continue his work in Creative Placemaking for rural communities as well as position our company to lead economic growth and community development throughout Iowa and the Midwest.”
Mannheimer received his Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Theatre from Muhlenberg College. He has received numerous awards and recognition since settling in Des Moines nearly a decade ago including, among others, the Governor of Iowa Volunteer Service Award (2009), Young Professional of the Year (2009), Citizen of the Year (2011), and Top 25 Business Leader (2015). He serves on the boards of Iowa Public Radio and the Iowa Rural Development Council. In addition, Zachary co-owns Proof Restaurant, a Mediterranean dinner spot located in the Des Moines Gateway District.
