Paul Darby has been named vice president and chief economist of The Conference Board of Canada, effective July 1.

Darby succeeds Jim Frank, who is retiring after 27 years with the Conference Board. Before this promotion, Darby was the board’s Director of Economic Forecasting. He has worked at the Conference Board for the last 18 of his 25 years as an economist.

“I am pleased that we are able to pass the torch to an internal leader who will continue the Conference Board’s outstanding reputation for delivering quality and timely economic analysis, ” said Anne Golden, president and CEO of the Conference Board. “Paul is an exceptionally skilled and knowledgeable economist, he is an excellent manager, and he has credibility with customers and peers.

“We also recognize Jim Frank’s extraordinary contribution to our organization, and everyone associated with the Conference Board wishes him well in his retirement.”

As chief economist, Darby is responsible for the Conference Board’s short and long-term economic forecasts, the Canadian Tourism Research Institute, and the board’s Custom Economic Services.

“This is a very exciting appointment,” said Darby. “I look forward to the opportunity to help our customers better anticipate economic trends and events, and I will strive to make a meaningful contribution to the public policy process.”

Darby has a Master’s degree in Economics from the University of Toronto.