Ellis fills a vacancy that has been open since Nancy Hyde departed last September.

"Ellis efforts in Newton will focus on furthering Newton’s innovation economy, assisting Newton’s current businesses to grow and prosper, and attracting new business to the city," said Newton Planning Director, Barney Heath.

“Kathryn has impeccable credentials for this position. With over twenty-seven years' experience in Economic Development, Kathryn has particular expertise in assisting government agencies plan and implement integrated marketing and communication programs both in the US and abroad,” Heath said in a statement.

“In particular, on behalf of the UK government, she focused both on assisting European companies (especially biotech and IT companies) to expand to New England and US companies to find a base in the European market. Most recently she founded a sales and marketing company to support for private sector companies and economic development agencies.”

Ellis is originally from Ireland and has lived in the Boston area for the past 29 years. She can be reached at kellis@newtonma.gov.