Buddy Rizer

Buddy Rizer is the Executive Director for Economic Development in Loudoun County, Virginia—home to “Data Center Alley” and recognized as the 2021 Economic Development Organization of the Year by the International Economic Development Council. Since joining the department in 2007, Rizer has led efforts that have attracted more than $65 billion in investment and over 60,000 new jobs, helping reduce the local tax rate by more than 48 cents on the dollar.



He has extensive global experience, promoting Loudoun in over 15 countries and building relationships across commercial and agricultural sectors. Rizer’s leadership has earned him numerous accolades, including being named a Tech Titan by Washingtonian Magazine eight times, one of Virginia Business Magazine’s 50 Most Influential Virginians, and a three-time member of the Washington Business Journal’s Power 100.



A 2025 recipient of the National Eagle Scout Association’s Outstanding Eagle Scout Award, Rizer also serves in multiple regional leadership roles, including Chair of the Rivana at Innovation Station CDA and board positions with NOVA, NVTC, and the Washington Airports Task Force. He holds a CEcD and EDP certification, a master’s degree from Longwood University, and is a graduate of Virginia Tech’s Local Government Management Program.

Widham has a BA in Finance from The George Washington University in Washington, DC.