The Covington County Economic Development Commission (CCEDC) has named local attorney Rick Clifton its president and CEO.

“The CCEDC is pleased to welcome Clifton to this position,” said Ed Short, CCEDC chairman. “He brings more than 20 years of diverse experience in business, military and economic development efforts through his work as an attorney and an active member of the community.”

Clifton, who currently practices law with Albrittons, Clifton and Moody, has worked closely with the Andalusia and Opp Industrial Development Boards, the CCEDC, and the South Alabama Regional Airport.

Short said he has a proven track record for building partnerships that promote area growth.

“Appointing a president and CEO with Clifton’s experience will allow CCEDC to not only sustain its economic development efforts, but also enhance the recruitment and retention endeavors that are vital to any successful economic development plan,” Short said.

Clifton earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama and graduated cum laude from the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University in Birmingham.

He is an elder in First Presbyterian Church of Andalusia, is a past president of both the Andalusia Kiwanis Club and the Andalusia Area Chamber of Commerce, and is a member of the board of directors of Regions Bank.

Clifton will assume his duties on July 1. He replaces Tucson Roberts, who resigned to accept a job with Enterprise State Community College’s aviation school.