DOBSON — In a time when bringing jobs to Surry County is so vital to the local economy, the Surry County Economic Development Partnership announced Monday that a new president has been hired.

Todd M. Tucker was hired yesterday, according to Ted Ashby, chairman of the board of directors.

“We are pleased Todd will join our efforts to improve the economic situation in Surry County,” Ashby said. “He has a proven track record of success in economic development, as well as excellent communication skills and strong relationships with key members of the state and regional economic development community. These are important advantages in this difficult and competitive environment.”

The former president of the EDP, Robin Rhyne, resigned her position effective Jan. 30. Ashby said the partnership received well over 40 applications for the position. The field was recently narrowed to three candidates. Tucker and the EDP came to an agreement yesterday, Ashby said.

“He will be looking at starting the first or second week of August,” Ashby said.

Tucker has more than 15 years of experience in various economic development roles, including international business development representative and then director of marketing and client services with the North Carolina Department of Commerce. Most recently, he was senior business development representative for Progress Energy.

“I am very excited to have the opportunity to join SCEDP,” Tucker said. “I look forward to working with the partnership board and its members on initiatives that will foster continued growth in Surry County.”

Tucker, a graduate of North Carolina State University, has earned his Certified Economic Developer designation (CEcD), a national recognition denoting mastery of principal skills in economic development.

For more information on the Surry County Economic Development Partnership, visit www.surryedp.com.

Contact Mondee Tilley at mtilley@mtairynews.com or at 719-1930.