Ellen McNair, an experienced economic developer from the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, will succeed Canfield at the state’s lead economic development agency.

“Economic expansion is good for communities and good for families. I am proud of what we achieved during my time in the public sector and look forward to continuing those efforts across the Southeast in my new role at Burr & Forman,” Canfield said.

At Burr & Forman, Canfield will continue working to attract and retain businesses in the state and throughout the Southeastern U.S. He will work with the firm’s Economic Development Team, which includes lawyers across five states.

“Secretary Canfield and I have worked together for over a decade,” said Burr & Forman Partner Lee Thuston. “He knows economic development — and particularly the automotive sector — inside and out. That knowledge and his leadership will be a great benefit to our clients going forward.”

While Commerce Secretary, Canfield was inducted into the Alabama Automotive Manufacturers’ Association Hall of Fame and the Southern Automotive Manufacturers’ Alliance Hall of Fame.

“Our law firm has long enjoyed a reputation for results in the economic development industry. We are thrilled to have Secretary Canfield joining us to build on that success and ensure seamless, knowledgeable service to our clients,” Burr & Forman CEO Ed Christian said.