Monday was the first day on the job for Sherry Spring, Gloucester’s new economic development director.

A native of Martinsville, Spring has 18 years of extensive managerial experience in economic development with a record of success in new job creation and capital investment, according to county spokesperson Christi Lewis.

Spring previously worked in local government as the executive director for the Patrick Henry Development Council and Brunswick County Industrial Development Authority.

After relocating to this area, Spring was the executive director for the Downtown Hampton Development Partnership. In this role, Lewis said Spring improved Hampton’s economic vitality by adding new businesses and reducing vacancy rates.

Spring received her bachelor’s degree from Averett University in Danville and certification in economic development from the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute.

“The interview committee was impressed with her &lsqu...