Appalachian Power is renewing its commitment to economic development in West Virginia by creating a new position to lead the effort in the state.

Heather Vanater has been named as Appalachian Power’s new economic and business development manager. She will work to bring new business and grow existing businesses in the state, as well as support the efforts of state, local and regional economic and business development organizations.

“We are committed to improving and growing the economy in West Virginia,” said Chris Beam, president and chief operating officer of Appalachian Power. “This new position and all that it entails shows that we are dedicated to bringing new businesses and jobs to the area.”

Vanater joins the company from the West Virginia Development Office, where she served as a business retention and expansion manager. She previously worked as a customer representative and compliance specialist with the state Attorney General’s office and economic development project director for the Putnam County Development Authority.

“Bringing jobs and growth to our state is a passion of mine and I’m pleased to be joining a company that shares this commitment,” Vanater said. “I’m blessed to have great mentors and colleagues around the state and look forward to building on the economic development efforts of those both at state and local levels.”

Vanater is a member of the West Virginia Economic Development Council and the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce board of directors. She has a bachelor’s degree from Marshall University.

“We are extremely pleased that Heather has joined our economic and business development team,” said John Smolak, Appalachian Power’s director of economic and business development. “She brings valuable economic development experience from both the state and local levels and is active in many local boards and organizations.”