JACKSON,Benjamin Ashford Miss. (AP) — Mississippi’s economic development agency has a new leader, Gov. Tate Reeves’ office said.

Reeves appointed Bill Cork on Thursday as the new executive director of the Mississippi Development Authority. Cork replaces Laura Hipp Mayer, who served as the agency’s interim executive director since August 2021 after former director John Rounsaville resigned amid a sexual misconduct investigation.

“We are committed to expanding our economy, driving further growth, raising wages, and bringing in more jobs for the people of Mississippi,” Reeves said in a news release announcing the appointment. “This team will be key to accomplishing that mission, and I have the utmost confidence in them.”

Cork previously served as the deputy director of the agency. Before working in state government, he worked at the Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission, the Texarkana Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Sempra Energy Solutions, Reeves’ office said.

Cork said being tapped to lead the agency “is truly humbling.”

“I look forward to serving the great state of Mississippi in this new role and building upon the amazing momentum we are achieving together. " he said.

Cork’s appointment still needs to go before the Mississippi Senate for confirmation, but he can serve in the post until the confirmation hearing.