A new executive director was named by the Marshall Economic Development Corporation Thursday afternoon during a regular board meeting at the Center for Applied Technology on the campus of Texas State Technical College.

Cliff R. Todd, who has previously spent 30 years working for the Texas Department of Agriculture, was named to the position in a brief announcement by board Chairman Rusty Howell.

Todd's application was selected out of 18 people who were contacted for the job, 10 of which sent in applications.

"After looking at the resumes, we feel that Cliff is far and away the best fit for the job," said Louis Brock Sr., a member of the executive board. "He has got roots in East Texas. We are convinced that he will do a great job. We're looking forward to him going to work."

The 54-year-old Todd, who was approved by a 4-0 vote, comes to MEDCO after having worked for the agriculture department since 1976.

Howell agreed with Brock Sr., saying he felt Todd was the right fit for the duty.