#Bridgeport, CT – Mayor Joe Ganim  announced the appointment of Thomas F. Gill as director of the Bridgeport Office of Planning and Economic Development (OPED).  Gill takes over for Interim Director Ed Lavernoich who will return to his position at Bridgeport Economic Development Corporation (BEDCO). Gill is leaving his position as Chief Operations Officer of Black Rock Capital, LLC to take over as director of Bridgeport OPED.

“I am looking forward to the economic growth Tom will bring to the city,” said Mayor Ganim.  “We have known each other for decades and Tom has a genuine love for his city. I am certain his experience in the public and private sector while bring a unique perspective to development in Bridgeport. I greatly appreciate the input we received from the regional business community and statewide economic development officials while choosing Tom Gill for this position. He is the right man for the job and will greatly benefit our community.”

“I am passionate about Bridgeport; this is where I am from. We have over 40 active projects that we plan to layout. These projects mean job creation, an increase in tax base and an increase in quality of life,” said Gill.

Gill previously served as Bridgeport director of Economic Development for six years under the administration of Mayor John Mandanici. Gill also served as President, CEO and director of Fairfield First Bank and Trust Company before becoming COO of Black Rock Capital, LLC. He is a member of the Equipment Lease and Finance Association, International Association of Diemakers and Diecutters, and Foil Stamping Association. Gill received a BA in Economics from the University of Bridgeport and a Masters of Banking and Finance from the University of Wisconsin. He served in the United States Air Force Reserves from 1966 to 1972.

As director of OPED, Thomas Gill will serve at the pleasure of the mayor with an annual salary of $124,000.