Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance announces Innovation Council chairs

The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance announced the 2012 leaders Friday for the Innovation Councils that will shape the organization's strategic focus and keep customers connected.

The Innovation Councils were created to focus on three of the alliance's core functions: Business support, community development and economic development.

The following will serve as 2012 council leaders.

Business Support Innovation Council

Chair: Julie Hein, general manager, KZIA Z102.9 and 1600 ESPN Radio

Vice Chair: Mike McGrath, owner, McGrath Powersports

Community Development Innovation Council:

Chair: Brian Brandt, managing director, Principal Financial Group

Vice Chair: Cathy Terukina, vice president, administration, SourceMedia Group/The Gazette Co.

Economic Development Innovation Council:

Chair: Rod Dooley, vice president, talent management and diversity, Rockwell Collins

Vice Chair: Dan Smith, division vice president, Whirlpool - Amana