Barry Richardson has been appointed as executive director of Nash-Edgecombe Economic Development.

The private nonprofit organization operates a variety of programs funded by federal, state and local governments. It serves residents who live in Nash, Edgecombe and Wilson counties.

The organization seeks to promote self-sufficiency, advance the welfare of low income people, protect and enhance individual dignity and help eliminate poverty, among other goals.

Richardson is a graduate of Pembroke State University who has more than 25 years of experience working in the nonprofit field.