Palmerton-based Horsehead Resources Development Co. Inc., named James H. Davis as its new president and chief executive officer, who announced an ambitious $30 million expansion.

Davis, who spent six years in various senior executive positions with Horsehead and an affiliated company, Pony Industries, originally hails from Iowa and spent 19 years working for Ashland Oil, one of the nation's largest petroleum-products companies.He replaces Dr. David O. Carpenter, who will retain his post as president of Horsehead Industries and as vice chairman of HRD.The expansion plans include a new kiln and additional storage and handling facilities.