The Albert Lea Economic Development Agency board announced Friday it has promoted the organization’s assistant director to replace former Executive Director Dan Dorman, who accepted a new job last month.

Ryan Nolander has served for eight years as assistant director. He has a degree in finance from the University of St. Thomas, is certified as an economic development finance professional and is a member of the Southern Minnesota Peer-to-Peer Entrepreneur Network, according to a news release. The network works with other communities and economic development agencies to develop an entrepreneurial culture throughout the southern part of the state.

He could not be reached for comment Friday afternoon. The news release didn’t list his accomplishments as the assistant director.

Dorman, who has accepted a job leading a new economic development partnership program launched by the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities, will continue as a part-time project manager for ALEDA through the middle of October, allowing him to complete projects already underway by the agency.

The action was taken at the board’s Wednesday meeting. The change was effective immediately.

Dorman, who has worked for ALEDA for six years, said the board also agreed to look at the current staffing to make sure they are best able to use their skills.

“When you have an opening like this, it’s a good time to look at positions,” Dorman said.

ALEDA — which is made up of the Albert Lea Port Authority and Greater Jobs Inc. — is self-funded through its land sales, building ownership, leases and asset management. Staffing and operational costs are covered without tax funding from the city or Freeborn County.