Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE) today announced the appointment of Amber Kohler as its new Manager of Engagement & Partnerships, effective Tuesday, August 19, 2025.

Working alongside Destiny Bryson on the OhioSE Engagement Team, Kohler will collaborate with economic development organizations, government leaders, and regional partners across the 25-county footprint. Their work will concentrate on expanding regional awareness, fostering strong partnerships, and equipping communities with the research, technical tools, and funding pathways needed to advance job-creating opportunities.

"I am very honored to be given this opportunity with OhioSE,” said Kohler. “Having lived my entire life in Appalachian Ohio, I have seen first hand not only the struggles that exist but the strength and fortitude of the residents to overcome those obstacles. To be a part of an operation whose endeavor is to support economic growth and assist the amazing people of Southeast Ohio to realize their goals is a dream come true.”

Before joining the OhioSE team, Kohler served as Deputy District Director for Congressman Mike Rulli, representing Ohio’s 6th Congressional District across 11 counties. Prior, she served as Field Representative and Marietta District Office Manager for Congressman Bill Johnson, and has also held roles with the U.S. Census Bureau, Zanesville Museum of Art, and East Muskingum Schools.

A Norwich, Ohio native, Kohler earned her Bachelor of Applied Strategic Management from Ohio University, graduating cum laude.

“It is my hope that my experience growing up as the daughter of local small business owners, and as a woman who has dedicated her career to understanding the issues within the region, will benefit the mission of this indusrious organization,” said Kohler.

Engagement is central to OhioSE’s role as a connector across the region. By building relationships, fostering awareness, and facilitating open communication, the organization helps align local, regional, and state-level efforts. This collaborative approach strengthens the partnership with JobsOhio by surfacing local priorities, increasing community readiness, and ensuring that opportunities are pursued collectively. Economic development is a shared effort—and thoughtful engagement is what brings it to life.

“Our region has a unique set of circumstances—there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for the diverse economic landscape we serve,” said Bryson, OhioSE Director of Engagement and Partnerships. “By engaging with our communities to understand their needs, serve as a resource, and apply the tools available through OhioSE and JobsOhio, we can help each community move forward in its own way.”

As Manager of Engagement & Partnerships, Kohler will serve the eastern counties of the region. Bryson will continue to support the southern counties.

“We’re thrilled to have Amber join the OhioSE team. Her leadership and deep understanding of our region will make her an ideal fit to serve in this role,” said Matt Abbott, OhioSE President and CEO. “With 25 counties to support, engagement is essential—and Amber will play a key role in ensuring communities across her area are connected, informed, and equipped to pursue economic opportunities. We encourage our partners to welcome her, connect with her, and continue the strong collaborations that move this region forward.”

View the original release

Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE) is the JobsOhio Network Partner for southern, eastern, and southeastern Ohio, providing economic development work and resources in 25 rural counties. Geographically the largest of the seven regions across the state, OhioSE partners closely with regional development districts, local economic development offices, state agencies, and other entities to expand, retain, and attract businesses in the counties they serve.