Justin Sommer, Miami County’s development director, is leaving to become the new assistant city manager/economic development director for the city of Piqua.

Sommer’s selection for the Piqua position was announced Monday by the city.

“We are very pleased to have Justin join our Piqua team,” City Manager Gary Huff said in a written announcement. “He brings a wealth of skills, knowledge and experience to our economic development efforts.”

Sommer has been the county development director since fall 2012. He previously worked with the county as workforce development coordinator from 2007-late 2010 before working for the Ohio Department of Development as Regional Workforce Director.

Sommer said Monday he is excited to join the Piqua team.

“The City of Piqua is moving in a positive direction under the leadership of Gary Huff.  I look forward to growing my relationships with the businesses in Piqua and building

relationships with the citizens,” Sommer said.

“I would also like to thank the Miami County Board of Commissioners and the

staffs at the Department of Development and Job and Family Services for the

opportunity to serve with them over the last six years,” he added.

Sommer has a bachelor’s degree from Miami University.

John “Bud” O’Brien, Miami County commission president, said the county would begin a search for a new development director. “He was doing a very good job for us and his leadership will be missed,” O’Brien said.

Sommer is a member of the Ohio Economic Development Association, I-70/75 Development Association, West Central Ohio Development Coalition, Dayton Development Coalition, Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission and the Ohio Career Development Association.

Bill Murphy, Piqua’s previous assistant city manager/economic development director, left in January to become executive vice president of economic development at the Greater Columbus, Ga., Chamber of Commerce.