Kristi Sutphin has succeeded Chris Morello as director of economic development for Isle of Wight County.

Morello’s promotion took effect Feb. 1. Previously, she served for 15 years as the county’s coordinator of economic development. Sutphin came to the county in 2008 after previously serving roughly seven years as manager of development research and information technology for the city of Portsmouth, and three years as executive secretary for the city of Suffolk’s economic development department.

“It is an honor to be named the County’s Director of Economic Development,” Sutphin said. “I look forward to continuing to serve the community, building relationships and providing resources that enable businesses to put down roots and grow in Isle of Wight.” 

Sutphin’s background includes a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from Virginia Wesleyan University in Virginia Beach. She is also a 2007 graduate of the Economic Development Institute at the University of Oklahoma.

Morello resigned last October to take a new position with the city of Newport News.

Editor’s note: This story was updated at 2:14 p.m. on Feb. 20 with a statement from Sutphin.