NAFCU has named David Carrier the organization's new chief economist and director of research, effective April 30.

He replaces former NAFCU chief economist Tun Wai, who retired in February after 25 years with the trade organization.

“NAFCU is delighted to have someone with David's exceptional wealth of knowledge and experience on board to spearhead our outstanding research team,” said President/CEO Fred Becker. “With his 20-plus years of economic research and analysis expertise, we look forward to him leading NAFCU's economics and research division to new heights.”

Carrier earned his Ph.D. in economics from Notre Dame and his undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland.

Prior to joining NAFCU, Carrier was the chief economist at the Appalachian Regional Commission where he worked on economic development strategies in rural underserved areas and developed ways to measure program impact.

Carrier was also the senior economist at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. He currently serves as chair of the Board of Directors of the Northwest Cooperative Development Center.