2026 Power 100: Roberta Brien

Executive vice president at Worcester Business Development Corp.

Title: Executive vice president

Worcester Business Development Corp., in Worcester

Age: 54

Employees: 10

Some of Worcester’s most significant development opportunities begin long before a building is constructed. For the last eight years, Brien has spearheaded efforts to acquire, clean up, and prepare 51 acres of former industrial land for redevelopment. Since 2025, she has overseen more than $20 million in contracts, administered over $18 million in grants, and completed remediation of key parcels at GreenTech Park, one of the most ambitious economic development projects in Worcester. The project redeveloping portions of the former Saint-Gobain property is expected to support 1,000 jobs and create one of the region’s premier advanced manufacturing campuses.

What unique skill sets you apart from others? I ask a lot of questions. Learning about businesses and development goals helps create better outcomes.

What is one habit powerful leaders should practice every day? Perspective. It helps leaders see the big picture, appreciate progress, remain flexible, and better manage challenges.

Why do you do business in Central Mass.? Central Massachusetts deserves an organization willing to take on difficult projects that create opportunities.

– Digital Partners -