Former Abbott Staffer to Lead Texas Economic Development Agency

Texas' state economic development agency has tapped its new leader: Gov. Greg Abbott's former deputy chief of staff. Robert Allen will replace Tracye McDaniel, who stepped down from her role as president and CEO of the Texas Economic Development Corporation to start her own consulting firm earlier this month."[Allen] has been an invaluable member of my team, and after 14 years of exemplary service in my office and to the State of Texas, I want to thank him for his boundless dedication," Abbott said in a statement released Friday. "In Robert's new role, we will continue to work together to promote Texas' economic climate to attract businesses across the country and abroad, ensuring the Lone Star State remains the top state in which to do business."Sanjiv Yajnik, who chairs the agency's board and is president of Captial One's Plano-based financial services, said Allen's "direct experience" with Abbott's office made him an ideal pick.Allen said in a statement that he's excited to lead an agency he helped "plan, develop and organize," as part of the governor's staff. "This role allows me the opportunity to accelerate future business investment and job creation in my home state," he said.   Continue reading...