× Thanks for reading! Log in to continue. Enjoy more articles by logging in or creating a free account. No credit card required. Log in Sign up {{featured_button_text}}

The city of Richmond has a new head of economic development.

Mayor Levar Stoney announced Monday that his administration has hired Leonard Sledge as director of its Department of Economic Development. He started Monday and will make $145,000 annually.

“The city of Richmond is growing, and we need to make sure we pursue development that not only expands our tax base but is community-oriented and expands opportunity for all of our residents,” Stoney stated in a news release announcing the hire. “[Sledge’s] background in local government and his record of informed, principled decision-making indicate he’s the right person for the job.”

In the role, Sledge is responsible for bringing new businesses to the city, retaining existing companies and employers, and promoting growth of small businesses.

Sledge has roots in Virginia. He worked for four years as the director of economic development for Hampton. Before that, he completed a stint with the College of William & Mary.

Most recently, Sledge worked in Georgia as executive director of the Henry County Development Authority. The authority is responsible for attracting businesses to a swath of the Atlanta metro area.