Sussex County appoints Andrew Harden director of economic development as Bill Poff retires

Sussex County on July 29 recognized outgoing Economic Development Director Bill Poff for eight years of service and unanimously appointed Economic Development Manager Andrew Harden as the new director effective Aug. 1, 2025.

Council President Douglas B. Hudson read a tribute commending Poff’s “devotion, loyalty and excellence” in the role. Poff told the council he appreciated the opportunity to serve, thanked county staff and said he had worked closely with Harden during a six‑month transition.

County Administrator Todd Lawson said Harden previously worked at the Delaware Division of Small Business, administered state economic initiatives, and has local ties to Seaford. A motion to appoint Harden was offered and seconded; Councilmember Riley moved the appointment and Councilmember Grunenbaum seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

Harden told the council he would build on the office’s programs, citing the Excite Sussex Loan Fund and the Sussex County Kitchen Incubator as examples of initiatives he intends to support.

Why it matters: The appointment makes official a planned leadership transition in the county’s economic development office and keeps staff continuity because Harden has been the economic development manager and has shadowed Poff.