Rachel Wacker has been named executive director of the Greater Dallas County Development Alliance, a group that attracts new businesses to the county and provides support to existing companies. Wacker most recently worked in the city of West Des Moines’ community and economic development department, supporting business development and expansion efforts and urban renewal projects. She’s also worked in business development roles at Iowa Economic Development Authority and North Iowa Corridor Economic Development Corp. in Mason City. Wacker, a recent West Des Moines Leadership Academy graduate, has a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism and mass communication from Iowa State University. She began her new role with the Dallas County alliance on Aug. 2.