Governor Tate Reeves has announced a series of appointments at the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA), with William Cork being selected to serve as the new executive director and chief economic development officer.
Cork has held the position of MDA Deputy Director and Chief Economic Development Officer for the past three years, with his role consisting of leading teams responsible for an array of divisions across the state.
Prior to serving at MDA, Cork’s 30-year economic and industrial development career included roles as the CEO of the Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission, the CEO of the Texarkana, Texas Regional Chamber of Commerce, the CEO of TexAmericas Center, New Boston TX, and owner of his own consulting and real estate companies.
“Serving as part of a record-setting and nationally recognized economic development organization over the last three and a half years is already a career highlight,” Cork explained. “The invitation to lead this amazing group of professionals, as part of Governor Tate Reeves’ leadership team, 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.”
Cork also led sales operations for Sempra Energy Solutions and ICF Consulting after working on military base redevelopment with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Construction Engineering Research Laboratories throughout the 1990’s.
Reeves added that the position of chief operations officer was given to PJ Waldrop while the role of chief investment officer was granted to Steven McDevitt.
“Mississippi achieved record-breaking levels of economic development in recent years, and we have no plans to slow down anytime soon,” Reeves stated. “We are committed to expanding our economy, driving further growth, raising wages, and bringing in more jobs for the people of Mississippi. This team will be key to accomplishing that mission, and I have the utmost confidence in them.”
