The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association has named COO and Chief of Staff Jeffrey Connor interim CEO in the continuing absence of Jo Ann Emerson, who suffered a brain hemorrhage earlier this year.

Connor was named acting CEO shortly after Emerson's medical emergency. The NRECA Board of Directors elevated his status to interim CEO during a special meeting Tuesday, although it was not immediately clear whether the change in title signified a change in duties.

"Without question, this has been a difficult few months for employees and members of the organization, and we know Jeffrey is providing the leadership we need right now," Board President Mel Coleman said in a statement. "This decision affirms the mission of NRECA and expresses the Board's confidence that this appointment will support the organization's positive momentum for the future."

Connor was Emerson's chief of staff when she was in the U.S. House of Representatives.

"We have a very talented team at NRECA, and I'm honored to be part of a dedicated group of people who work so hard for our membership," Connor said.

Emerson joined NRECA as CEO in 2013. She was vacationing with her family in Italy in August when she fell ill. She has since been flown back to the U.S. and is receiving treatment.

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