John Craford on March 1 became acting president and executive director of the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority after Gary King retired on Feb. 29.
King worked at CHFA for more than 20 years, with 16 of those years in the capacity of president and executive director. Prior to the change, Craford was serving as executive vice president and has been with the agency for more than 15 years.
“On behalf of the board and residents of Connecticut, I want to thank Gary for his work over the many years he has guided CHFA,” said chairwoman Rolan Joni Young. “During his tenure, CHFA has initiated a number of programs that have had a positive impact on thousands of families throughout Connecticut, and his commitment to assist homebuyers while guiding CHFA through the peaks and valleys of the housing market will be missed.”
“While Gary’s absence will certainly be felt, we are fortunate to have John, with his knowledge, skills, and experience, ready to step in and assume the leadership post at CHFA on a temporary basis,” Young added.
The authority is in the process of putting together a request for proposals in a nationwide search for a new president and executive director, Young said. Her hope is that the RFP will be issued by the end of the week, and that the entire process will be finished within four months.
The authority wants to find the “absolute best talent,” and will be “methodical and delibe rate and thorough to get the best person we can,” Young said.
CHFA issued $284.7 million of debt in 2007.
