Michigan Economic Development Corporation

 

James McBryde

Vice President
Governmental Affairs
James McBryde
Current Focus
James McBryde is Vice President of Governmental Affairs for the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). In his role, McBryde works with the Michigan Legislature to seek passage of the MEDC'S annual budget and important economic development initiatives. He also serves as the MEDC liaison with several local groups, including major trade and chamber organizations.
Professional Background

Before joining the MEDC, McBryde was elected to the Isabella County Commission in 1984 and served for six years before running for 99th District State Representative in 1990. McBryde served as Vice Chair of the Commission for two terms and was elected the first Chair of Isabella County's 911 Central Dispatch Governing Board.

McBryde was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 1990 and served for eight years before retiring due to term limits. In the Michigan House, he served on the House Appropriations Committee as Chair of the State Police and Military Affairs Subcommittee and Vice Chair of the Higher Education Subcommittee. While serving in the Legislature, McBryde received the following honors:

  • Named "Legislator of the Year" by the Michigan Sheriffs' Association in 1994.
  • Received the Legislative "Star Award" from the Michigan Deputy Sheriffs' Association in 1994 and 1996.

Before joining the MEDC, McBryde served the state as an Administrative Commissioner for the Michigan Liquor Control Commission and, prior to that, was the Special Assistant for Drug Policy in the Michigan Department of Community Health and served as Chair for the Partnership for a Drug-Free Michigan.

Education and Personal Information

McBryde received his bachelor's degree in Political Science with honors from Central Michigan University. He received the "CMU Centennial Award" in 1992 and was recognized as one of Central Michigan University's most distinguished alumni of their first 100 years for the development of the higher education "floor funding" formula which is still used to this day.

In 2008, McBryde was awarded the "Distinguished Service Award" by the MEDC for moving an aggressive economic development agenda through the Michigan Legislature including many items mentioned in the Governor's 2008 State of the State Address.

Jim McBryde and his wife Kim have been married since 1987 and live in Mount Pleasant. They have four daughters.