A former Liebert plant manager is the new director of the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce.

At its Friday board meeting, the chamber unanimously chose Jerry Rowe to succeed Bob Smith, who retired in December.

“I feel very positive about it,” Dr. Bill Dingus, director of the Lawrence Economic Development Corp., said. “The chamber board made the decision with (chamber president) Ted Edwards’ recommendation. The LEDC will work to help in assisting small businesses.”

Rowe, who ran and lost for Lawrence County Treasurer in 2012, will start immediately. The position is part-time and Dingus declined to give the salary for the job.

“Bob (Smith) has done an exceptional job of growing the chamber,” Rowe said.

“I just intend to build on his outstanding accomplishments and continue to communicate with local businesses,” Rowe said. “There are many suppliers and potential customers in the local area who could help other businesses to grow. It is important to provide that network of suppliers and potential customers.”

Among Rowe’s plans for the new job is to continue the chamber’s networking luncheons and the weekly electronic newsletter.

“I appreciate the opportunity to serve the citizens of Lawrence County and the surrounding area,” he said.

In addition to working at Liebert, Rowe was also a senior manufacturing engineer for Cabletron in Ironton and group leader for Toyota Motor in Buffalo, W.Va. Rowe served in the Army National Guard as a combat engineer. He has also served as a board member for Ironton City Schools, Bellefonte Hospital Foundation, Huntington Boys and Girls Club and Tri-State Industries.

Rowe continues to support various other community-based organizations ranging from little league teams to Lawrence County 4-H programs.

Rowe, his wife Renee, and their three children attend Bridges Christian Church.