When Governor Dennis Daugaard took office in January 2011, he immediately made economic development a top priority and a cornerstone of his administration. His commitment to  in-state businesses, prospective companies, and job growth makes him South Dakota’s No. 1 salesman. 

During his first legislative session as Governor, he successfully led the effort to balance the budget without increasing taxes or using state reserve funds.

Prior to becoming governor, Daugaard served as South Dakota’s lieutenant governor from 2002-2010, and as a state legislator from 1996-2001. He has also worked in the financial services, nonprofit and legal sectors.

For a full bio, please visit Governor Dennis Daugaard’s website. 
 

 

As a longtime South Dakota businessman, Commissioner Pat Costello knows where today’s companies are coming from. Prior to assuming his role with the GOED, Costello worked as a CPA, has owned and operated multiple small businesses, and served on various boards and committees.

Costello cares about growing South Dakota and wants businesses in the state to prosper. Having worked in the trenches of small business himself – he just gets it. He is part of Governor Dennis Daugaard’s six-person executive committee, taking the lead on economic development efforts.

Costello is a graduate of Sioux Falls O'Gorman High School and Arizona State University. He and his wife, Shawn, have three children.

Cody Byrum assumed his role as the Deputy Commissioner of the South Dakota Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) in May 2011.

Byrum began his professional career as a Policy Analyst in the South Dakota Governor’s Office. After two years as analyst, Byrum was promoted to Deputy Legislative Director. He served four years in that capacity. Byrum is a member of the South Dakota Army National Guard.

Byrum is a graduate of Black Hills State University. He and his wife, Rachel, live in Pierre and enjoy touring the Black Hills and spending time on the Missouri River.

 

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