James Bailey, who has been a top lawyer in the executive and legislative branches of state government, has been named the new secretary of the West Virginia Department of Commerce.
His appointment is effective today.
Bailey has served as acting secretary of the Commerce department since July 2022, following the retirement of Ed Gaunch. Gov. Jim Justice announced his appointment as secretary today.
“James Bailey has spent his career in public service, and his passion for serving West Virginians is exactly the trait I look for in my Cabinet members,” Justice stated in the announcement. “I have all the confidence in the world that he will do a tremendous job as our new Secretary of Commerce.”
The Department of Commerce includes : Division of Forestry, Division of Labor, Division of Natural Resources, Geological & Economic Survey, Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training, WorkForce WV, and The Division of Rehabilitation Services.
Previously, Bailey had served as the deputy secretary of the Department of Commerce since August 2021. At the same time, he also served as general counsel for the departments of Commerce, Tourism, and Economic Development until his appointment as acting secretary.
“I look forward to serving the governor and state in this new role,” Bailey stated in the announcement. “We will continue the wonderful momentum we have generated under the leadership of Gov. Justice. It is an honor to be chosen to continue the outstanding work of Secretary Ed Gaunch and the team here at the Department of Commerce.”
Bailey previously served as senior counsel for policy and legislation for Governor Justice. He also served as counsel to the president of the West Virginia Senate, committee counsel to the West Virginia Senate and as an assistant prosecuting attorney in Kanawha County.