NORWICH – A new executive director is hoping to bring new leadership and vision to the Norwich Business Improvement District.

The organization named Roz DeRensis as the new BID administrator, effective Nov. 1. The Alaskan native and Norwich resident said she aspires to developing relationships and connections with business owners and community members.

Outgoing Executive Director Pegi S. LoPresti announced her resignation in September after serving the community for nearly 10 years.

“I have had the privilege and honor of working alongside so many great business owners, associates, volunteers, city workers and board members,” said LoPresti in a recent BID newsletter. “I know my successor will be welcomed as she transitions into the BID role and continues with the many successes we have all had the privilege and honor to be a part of.”

“Pegi is clearly owed a debt of gratitude for her accomplishments,” said BID Board President Tom Sutton.

DeRensis, who previously worked in public health care, moved to Norwich in September 2009. She said she plans on sustaining the mission of the BID that “downtown is the center of community life and more than just a place of commerce.” Currently, the BID has 82 business retailers and service providers listed on its website and DeRensis said she is excited to get to know them all.