Andy Campbell has been with the Haliburton County Development Corporation (HCDC) since it was founded in 1985. For 20 of those years, he’s worked closely with current assistant director Patti Tallman.

 

So when Campbell, 63, began considering retirement, it was only natural for him to discuss it with her.

 

“Patti and I have been talking about it for a couple of years,” he said in an interview with The Highlander. The board of directors has also been kept in the loop.

 

“We’ve been working on this for many years,” added Tallman.

 

But it wasn’t until the annual general meeting last week that Campbell announced he would be retiring March 31, 2018 and that Tallman would move into the position the next day.

 

In his interview, Campbell said it’s the right time and he’s confident the organization is in good hands.

 

“We’ve got a great team and a great board of directors. I really think HCDC is operating at a high level and is at the top of its game.”

 

He added that Tallman is “ready, able, capable and eager.”

 

Tallman, who was born and raised in Haliburton, started as secretary receptionist in 1997. Over time, she has taken on more responsibilities and worked closely with Campbell.

 

“Andy has been my mentor forever and ever,” she said. “To follow in the footsteps that Andy has put in front of me is something that I will certainly continue to do.”

 

Tallman doesn’t plan on making any changes and will continue to focus on HCDC’s success. The 55-year-old plans to stick around for at least 10 years. As for Campbell, he’s looking forward to enjoying the Highlands and volunteering in the community. He said he will miss meeting and working with clients. 

 

“I’ve met a lot of great business people,” he said.

 

In the past year, HCDC loaned $3.36 million to 61 local businesses. Read more about the HCDC annual general meeting in next Thursday’s Highlander.