Ann Lathrop, chief strategy officer for the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), joined the IEDC in November 2021 and was appointed to join Governor Eric J. Holcomb’s cabinet in August 2023. In her role, Lathrop oversees Indiana’s integrated approach to business development, aligning external engagement, workforce, business development, foreign direct investment, federal engagement, government-to-government relations, defense, foreign policy and trade to meet the needs and speed of the market.
With a rich professional history spanning more than 30 years, Lathrop brings a wealth of diverse experience to her role at IEDC. Her extensive expertise encompasses business development, sales, finance, marketing, and brand management. Notably, she served as Crowe's pioneering Chief Marketing Officer, where she orchestrated marketing and brand strategies and realigned the inside sales team. Lathrop's journey began as an auditor with KPMG, progressing to her pivotal position as Deputy Mayor of Indianapolis and subsequently as City Controller. Before joining Crowe, she flourished as Vice President of Business Development at ACS Inc./Lockheed Martin/Netgov.com.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Lathrop has made impactful contributions to the state by participating on various boards. She serves as an Executive Committee member at Visit Indy and previously served as Board President of the Indiana Youth Institute. As a distinguished alumna of San Diego State University, her achievements include being recognized as a Woman of Influence and Forty Under 40 leader by the Indianapolis Business Journal.
Lathrop resides in the city of Lawrence (Marion County) with her husband, Michael Gargano.