Angie’s List Exec to Lead Conexus

Howell is president and chief executive officer of Conexus Indiana.

Indiana’s advanced manufacturing and logistics initiative Conexus Indiana has appointed a new chief executive officer. Mark Howell, former Angie’s List chief operating officer, succeeds Steven Dwyer, who is retiring at the end of the year. Howell has been involved with Conexus since 2007, previously serving on the organization’s board. He tells Inside INdiana Business he believes Indiana’s manufacturing and logistics sectors are "fully equipped" to be at the forefront of emerging technologies including artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things.

Dwyer has served as president and CEO of Conexus Indiana for eight years. During that time, the organization says it tripled its staff, enrolled more than 8,000 high school and college students in talent development programs and launched three industry-led councils to focus on growth opportunities in the aerospace and defense, automotive and logistics sectors.

Howell enters his new position after five years as Angie’s List chief operating officer and a six-month stint as the company’s interim chief executive officer. New York-based IAC (Nasdaq: IAC) completed its acquisition of Angie’s List, valued at up to $500 million, last month. He also held multiple executive positions with Brightpoint Inc. for nearly two decades. During that time, Conexus says the company grew from 25 employees to become an international Fortune 500 company.

"Mark is well respected in the business community, and the board is excited that he will lead Conexus Indiana," says Conexus Indiana Chairman of the Board Chip Edgington. "He has the vision, enthusiasm, and expertise to build upon the Conexus Indiana team’s success to date and to amplify the organization’s mission."

For his part, Howell calls the appointment an honor, saying he looks forward to helping Conexus "continue its talent and business development programs" that support "an industry sector that employs one out of every five Hoosiers."

Howell will also be chair of the local host committee for the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium.