Danita Andrews

About

Danita Andrews, Senior Director, Business Retention and Expansion

FloridaWest Economic Development Alliance

Danita Andrews is an accomplished economic development practitioner with more than 25 years of experience advancing business growth, investment, and job creation across Florida. As Senior Director of Business Retention and Expansion for FloridaWest Economic Development Alliance, she leads strategic initiatives designed to attract investment, expand, and retain high-impact businesses throughout Greater Pensacola and Escambia County.

A driving force behind regional economic growth, Danita works closely with companies in key target sectors including headquarters operations, aviation and aerospace, information technology, marine technology, and advanced manufacturing. Her expertise spans business recruitment, retention and expansion, foreign direct investment, strategic partnerships, and complex project management. She also serves as Administrator for the Pensacola-Escambia Promotion and Development Commission, Foreign Trade Zone #249, helping position the region for global competitiveness and supply chain resilience.

Known for her collaborative leadership style and deep commitment to community advancement, Danita has built lasting relationships with business executives, industry leaders, elected officials, site selectors, developers, financial institutions, and workforce and education partners. She has been a passionate advocate for strengthening Northwest Florida’s economy and creating opportunities that benefit businesses, residents, and future generations.

Her dedication to community service extends beyond her professional role. Danita serves on the boards of the Pensacola Propeller Club (Bay Area Port of Historic Pensacola) and the Century Chamber of Commerce. She is an alumni of Leadership Pensacola, and remains actively involved in annual programs continuing to mentor and foster leaders in the Pensacola area.  

Danita holds an Associate of Science degree in Information and Computer Science from the University of Hawaii. She earned the prestigious Master Economic Development Practitioner (MEDP) credential through the Advanced Economic Development Leadership Program and is a graduate of the Economic Development Institute (EDI) at the University of Oklahoma. She continues to pursue professional excellence through ongoing involvement with the International Economic Development Council.

Originally from Central Louisiana, Danita and her husband, Bill, have enjoyed life in coastal communities across California, Hawaii, and Florida. Today, they proudly call Pensacola home, where they enjoy traveling, spending time with family and friends, and embracing the vibrant Gulf Coast lifestyle.