NASHVILLE (AP) — Gary Cordell, former finance director with the Better Business Bureau of Middle Tennessee, has been appointed director of the Tennessee Consumer Affairs Division.

Julie Mix McPeak, Commerce and Insurance commissioner, announced Cordell's appointment Wednesday. He began work this week.

Cordell succeeds Mary Clement, who served in the Bredesen administration.

He also has a background in operations management, finance, staff development and real estate.