Downtown Moorhead, Inc. Announces Leadership Transition
Moorhead, MN — December 8, 2025 — Downtown Moorhead, Inc. (DMI) today announced that its president and CEO, Derrick LaPoint, will be departing to take on a new leadership role within the community in early 2026. Derrick has been a transformative leader for DMI from the startup phase to DMI becoming one of the FM area’s most influential economic development entities.
“We are deeply grateful for Derrick’s vision, dedication, and tireless efforts,” said Carrie Brimhall, Board Chair of DMI. “His impact on our organization and the community will be felt for years to come, and he has set us up for continued success well into the future.”
Under Derrick’s leadership, DMI reached significant milestones and became a trusted partner for public, private, and nonprofit stakeholders in Moorhead. Derrick played a key role in developing Moorhead’s Downtown Master Plan, which paved the way for record-setting investments and historic redevelopment in the downtown district. He championed initiatives such as the Moorhead Renaissance Zone, the 18-acre Center Mall redevelopment, and the modernization of citywide incentive programs, including Commercial/Industrial exemptions and Storefront Rehab. These efforts have greatly enhanced the vibrancy, economic growth, and regional profile of Moorhead and Clay County. Mayor Carlson noted, “The insights and vision that Derrick has provided to Moorhead’s economic development, and particularly our downtown, have set us on a path to growth in tax base and vitality. We’re sorry to see him leave his current role, but we’re also excited that he remains a strong advocate for Moorhead’s future as he works in a new capacity. We wish him well, with our gratitude for a job well done.”
As part of this transition, Downtown Moorhead, Inc. is pleased to announce Matt Leiseth as Derrick’s successor. Matt, a longtime Moorhead resident and respected regional business leader, brings experience and deep community connections that make him an ideal choice to lead DMI forward. With Matt at the helm, the organization will remain in strong, capable hands and will continue building on the solid foundation Derrick established, ensuring momentum and stability for years to come.
Please join us in congratulating Derrick on his new role and welcoming Matt Leiseth as the next president and CEO of Downtown Moorhead, Inc.
Media Contacts:
Carrie Brimhall, PH.D.
Chairperson, Downtown Moorhead, Inc. Board of Directors
218.205.1531