Ulster County’s top economic development post now has a permanent leader.
The Ulster County Legislature confirmed county executive Jen Metzger’s appointment of Joshua Stratton-Rayner as director of the county Department of Economic Development at its March 18 meeting. He previously served as deputy director since 2022 and interim director since the start of 2026, following the departure of former director Kevin Lynch.
“I am thrilled to serve the people of this beautiful, special place that has become a true home for my family. We share similar anxieties about local and global economic uncertainty, find support in our community of friends and families, and strive to build a kinder and more equitable society of neighbors — it motivates me to think generationally about the impacts of our initiatives,” said Stratton-Rayner. “As director of economic development, I look forward to helping implement county executive Metzger’s vision of creating the conditions that allow Ulster County’s citizens to pursue stability, prosperity, and resilience.”
Stratton-Rayner helped guide several high-profile initiatives since joining the department four years ago. Those include the county’s first comprehensive arts and culture plan and the forthcoming Main Street Forward program aimed at strengthening downtown districts. In a statement, the county also credited his work on efforts tied to state economic development awards for projects including the Barrel Factory in Kingston, iPark 87 in the Town of Ulster, and the redevelopment of the Wellington Hotel in Shandaken. He also serves on the City of Kingston’s zoning working group.
“Joshua brings to this role a great combination of strategic insight, creativity, and experience working with local businesses and community stakeholders, and he has a proven track record advancing the economic priorities of the county in his prior role as deputy director,” said county executive Jen Metzger. “I look forward to our continued work together to build a resilient, thriving, and sustainable local economy that leaves no one behind.”
Before coming to Ulster County, Stratton-Rayner worked in Newburgh’s Department of Planning and Development and in Philadelphia’s Commerce Department. He lives in Kingston with his wife and two young children.
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