WDC Staff
YOUR LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT EXPERTS
Chris Clifton
Executive Director
Clifton brings over 35 years of economic development experience to the Watertown Development Company. Throughout his tenure, he as has facilitated numerous economic development projects such as site selection and development of new industrial land, facilitation of tenant/landlord real estate transactions in over 41 states, and the management of several non-profit fundraising campaigns – each of which raised over $22MM.
In this position, he leads the economic development organization and implements programs that facilitate the creation of jobs, quality housing, and economic growth throughout Watertown in accordance with the Watertown Development Company’s mission and strategic plan.
Chris is a Certified Economic Developer (CED), graduate of the US Chamber Institute of Organizational Management (IOM), and is a member of the Alpha Gamma Rho National Fraternity (AGR), Society of Industrial Office Realtors (SIOR), Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP), Urban Land Institute (ULI), and the Southern Economic Development Council (SEDC).
Contact Chris Clifton
Phone: 605-884-0340
Cell:605-880-6784
Email: cclifton@wdcsd.com
Melissa Backman
Executive Assistant
Melissa Backman joins Watertown Development Company with over 25 years of experience in customer service, administration, and business operations. Throughout her career, she has excelled in leadership roles across various industries, including economic development, property management, healthcare administration, and law enforcement. Melissa possesses a strong background in data analysis, grant writing, financial management, and business development. Her ability to streamline operations and enhance efficiency has been an asset in every organization she has worked with.
Melissa holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Rasmussen University and an Associate of Arts in Office Administration and Business Management from North Dakota State College of Science. Additionally, she is a Certified Project Officer (CPO), who has demonstrated proficiency in project planning, stakeholder management, and risk assessment.
Contact Melissa Backman
Phone: 605-884-0340
Cell:
Email: mbackman@wdcsd.com
Angie Yahne
Economic Development Project Manager
Angie joined the Watertown Development Company in January of 2023 to assist new and expanding companies, childcare, and various other programs available through the development company.
Angie attended South Dakota State University and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in 2013. She moved to Watertown in 2017 to start a family with her spouse. She worked as the General Manager for SkyWest airlines until January of 2022 when they ended up exiting Watertown. She then took a position as an Administrative Assistant for the Watertown Airport for about a year. She ended up leaving the airport to open Tropical Smoothie Cafe in Watertown in June of 2023. After successfully opening the cafe, Angie felt it was time to explore more career options and look for a way to help support Watertown and its growth.
Angie was hired as an Executive Assistant for Watertown Development Company on January 2nd and has since been promoted to Economic Development Project Manager. Angie has a passion for business and growth within the Watertown Community and hopes to become an asset for the Watertown Development Company.
Contact Angie Yahne
Phone: 605-884-0340
Cell: 605-880-2804
Email: ayahne@wdcsd.com