Commerce Dept. Names Textiles Official

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 1/8/2007 12:00:00 AM

Washington —

Matt Priest has been named deputy assistant secretary for textiles and apparel at the U.S. Department of Commerce. He succeeds James Leonard, who served in the position from 2002 until September of 2006.

In his new role, Priest will administer U.S. textile quota agreements, formulate trade policy, research and analyze industry data, and promote U.S. trade events.

In addition, Priest will work to improve the domestic and international competitiveness of the U.S. fiber, textiles, and apparel industries. He will also chair the interagency Committee for the Implementation of Textile Agreements (CITA).

"Matt Priest provides sound advice and key insight regarding textile and apparel issues and is a welcome addition to OTEXA [Office of Textiles and Apparel]," said Frank Lavin, under secretary for International Trade.

Priest most recently served as senior advisor to the assistant secretary for Import Administration at Commerce, where he advises on textiles and trade issues.

Prior to that, he was legislative director for Rep. Sue Myrick of North Carolina, advising in the areas of textiles, trade, and economic development.