NewBo Market looking for new director

After almost two and a half years as executive director of NewBo Market, Kristie Wetjen is leaving to become general manager of Tanger Outlet Mall in Williamsburg.

Wetjen was named NewBo Market executive director in April 2013. During her tenure, NewBo Market has experienced growing attendance and has nurtured more than two dozen small business entrepreneurs who have occupied spaces in the building.

In 2014, during its second year of operation, NewBo Market was named Outstanding Metro Attraction by the Iowa Tourism Office. Attendance has grown to 275,000 annually.

Terry Pitts, president of the NewBo Market board of directors, said in a news release that Wetjen has exceeded all of the board's expectations for her position.

'She clearly understood each facet of the market's mission, which is to bring community and entrepreneurs together in an exciting environment,” Pitts said. 'The market supports the efforts of entrepreneurs who want to start or expand a food or retail business, and the market provides the community and tourists with a great place to buy locally-produced food and goods.”

Wetjen said she has enjoyed her tenure at NewBo Market.

'My time with NewBo has been some of the most rewarding in my life,” she said. 'I love the market, the neighborhood, and the people involved.”

Pitts said a search for Wetjen's successor will begin immediately. Patrick DePalma, the board's treasurer, will serve as part-time interim director.