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
Sarah Giang
Investor Relations Manager
Sarah Giang joined the Watertown Development Company in 2024 to lead investor relations and HR functions for the organization. She plays a key role in coordinating communications and engagement efforts for the Grow Watertown 2.0 initiative and in strengthening connections with stakeholders across the region.
With over 14 years of customer service experience and 7 years in human resources, Sarah has supported organizations with 200+ employees in the retail, manufacturing, and financial sectors. Her background equips her with strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills. She specializes in building lasting relationships, aligning internal operations with strategic goals, and enhancing the investor and client experience at WDC.
A Watertown native, Sarah is a graduate of Watertown High School and earned her Associate of Applied Science degree from Lake Area Technical College in 2010. She is passionate about community-driven growth and helping connect people, purpose, and progress.
“Shared values and a collaborative spirit are the foundation of lasting partnerships—especially when they’re united in growing the economy and making their community a better place to live and work. I’m passionate about connecting with others who share a vision for Watertown’s future and moving it forward through meaningful investment and collaboration.”
Outside of the office, Sarah enjoys staying active at local fitness studios and spending quality time with her family and friends.
Contact Sarah Giang
Phone: 605-884-0340
Cell:605-657-2232
Email: sgiang@wdcsd.com
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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: 605-880-0472
Email: mbackman@wdcsd.com