Chamber Connect featuring Val Hale, Governor's Office of Economic Development

The Governor’s Office of Economic Development charter is based on Governor Herbert’s commitment to economic development statewide.
The mandate for this office is to provide rich business resources for the creation, growth and recruitment of companies to Utah and to increase tourism and film production in the state.
The Governor’s Office of Economic Development accomplishes this mission through the administration of programs that are based around industries or “economic clusters” that demonstrate the best potential for development. The Governor’s Office of Economic Development utilizes state resources and private sector contracts to fulfill its mission.
Vision of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development
Utah will lead the nation as the best performing economy and will be recognized as the premier global business environment and tourist destination.
Mission of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development
GOED’s mission is to enhance quality of life by increasing Utah’s revenue base and improving employment opportunities.
Six Objectives:
Monitor, improve and promote the economic health of both urban and rural communities.
Attract new investors and companies while supporting the expansion of existing Utah businesses.
Assist entrepreneurs and engage under-represented populations in starting new companies and growing existing businesses.
Expand tourism and the infrastructure to support it.
Encourage film production in the state.
Support and leverage both partner agencies and community leaders to create proactive, unique economic development solutions statewide.

Val Hale is the executive director of the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED), which promotes state growth in business, tourism and film. Hale was appointed to the position in 2014 by Gov. Gary R. Herbert.

Before accepting the position as executive director, Hale served for two years as president and CEO of the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce, leading efforts in business community issues— including regional economic development and branding initiatives.

Prior to serving in the chamber, Hale was vice president (2010-2012) for university relations at Utah Valley University (UVU), overseeing legislative affairs, marketing and public, media and community relations. From 2006-2010, Hale worked as advancement vice president at the university, responsible for fund raising and all university external activities. During this time, Hale played a key role in transitioning Utah Valley State College into Utah Valley University. Hale started at UVU as the assistant vice president for external affairs (2005-2006), where he served as legislative liaison and oversaw community relations and economic development activities.

Before his career at UVU, Hale began working for the Brigham Young University (BYU) Athletic Department in 1982 and continued with the department for 22 years. He started as promotions and publications coordinator, working his way up in the department until his promotion to athletic director in 1999. Hale left a cherished legacy of athletic department improvements. His success in fundraising resulted in the construction of Miller Park, the Student Athlete Building, the Indoor Practice Facility and the Legacy Seats in the LaVell Edwards Stadium.

Hale received his bachelor’s degree in public relations in 1981 and a master’s degree in communications in 1987—both from BYU. Hale worked as a reporter at the Daily Herald from 1981-1982, covering business, government and BYU.

Hale and his wife have three children and 11 grandchildren, and he currently resides in Orem, UT.