John Fernandez appointed Chief Executive Officer of The Mill

The Mill, Bloomington’s hub for entrepreneurship and tech innovation, proudly announces the appointment of John Fernandez as its new Chief Executive Officer. A long-time Bloomington resident and widely respected public servant, Fernandez brings a unique blend of local insight, private sector executive leadership, and cross-sector experience to the role.

A two-term Mayor of Bloomington and former Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development under President Obama, Fernandez most recently served as Senior Vice President of Innovation & Strategic Partnerships at The Mill and as Interim Executive Director. Prior to joining The Mill, he was Global Chief Innovation Officer at Dentons, the world’s largest law firm, where he also led Nextlaw Ventures, one of the first global legal tech venture capital funds. His background includes extensive work in economic development, innovation policy, startup investment, public-private partnerships, and placemaking—all central to The Mill’s expanding mission.

“Bloomington has always had incredible potential,” Fernandez said. I’m honored to lead this organization as we embrace a new chapter—one focused on innovation, inclusion, and collaboration to help more people and businesses thrive.”

“John brings the kind of leadership this moment calls for — trusted, clear-eyed, and grounded in community,” said Ravi Bhatt, Chair of The Mill’s Board of Directors and CEO of Folia, one of the many companies operating out of The Mill. “He knows how to build the infrastructure around people doing hard, meaningful work. With momentum growing in the Trades District, we have a chance to connect that effort to something larger. Indiana University and the City bring real strengths — from research and talent to civic vision — that make them essential partners in shaping what comes next. Now’s the time to align and build forward, together.”

Founded in 2018, The Mill has grown into a cornerstone of Bloomington’s innovation corridor. While it began as a coworking space, Fernandez’s appointment signals a bold new phase for The Mill, as it evolves into a civic platform that brings together entrepreneurs, researchers, civic leaders, and community partners to shape the future of Bloomington.

"John Fernandez is the right leader at the right time to propel The Mill to new heights,” said Indiana University President Pamela Whitten. “I look forward to partnering with John in the years to come to ensure that Indiana University and The Mill are strong collaborators in fostering innovation that boosts the Bloomington economy and supports the bold ideas of our students and faculty.”

Kerry Thomson, Mayor of Bloomington, added: “John understands the power of community. His appointment is a win not only for The Mill but for all of Bloomington. He’s uniquely equipped to bring people together and drive the kind of thoughtful, inclusive growth that defines our city’s best aspirations.”

For more information about The Mill and its leadership, visit https://www.dimensionmill.org.

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