The Bermuda Small Business Development Corporation (BSBDC) has strengethened its team with the appointment of Erica Smith as director of the Economic Empowerment (EEZ) Zone Agency.

Ms Smith will be responsible for the development and implementation of EEZs throughout Bermuda and will play a key role in the transformation of the zones to ensure economic, social and physical issues are identified and addressed.

Prior to joining the BSBDC, she ran her own consultancy firm, ERF Designs, which provided consultancy services in planning, architecture, urban design and sustainable development to various clients, including the BSBDC, where she helped with the early stages of development for the EEZ.

Before that, Ms Smith was director of sustainable development at the Cabinet Office, in charge of implementing Government's sustainable development strategy, as well as the assistant director of planning for the Department of Planning, where she was responsible for the Island's land use, zoning and development policies.

"BSBDC is extremely pleased to have someone as talented and experienced as Erica join our team," said Michelle Khaldun, general manager of the BSBDC.

"We needed just the right professional for this position and with the experience, commitment that she possesses, Erica is a perfect fit."

Ms Smith said: "The directorship of the Economic Empowerment Zones Agency is an exciting position that will not only provide an opportunity to be challenged and learn but it also allows me the opportunity to work on a worthwhile and important national issue directly at the grass-roots level. As a precedent setting initiative for Bermuda, I truly believe the EEZ project can be a model for all island nations."