Resources Connection Inc. (NASD: RECN) promoted Interim CEO Kate Duchene to president and CEO, effective Dec. 19.

Duchene has served as the company’s interim CEO since Oct. 5, when Anthony Cherbak announced his unexpected retirement as CEO due to health considerations.

Duchene joined Resources Connection in 1999, serving as chief legal officer; executive VP, human resources; and secretary. As a member of the executive team over the past 17 years, she developed strategy and made business decisions across RGP’s global platform. In 2012, Duchene assumed leadership and financial responsibility for the company’s legal consulting business.

Resources Connection’s board formed a search committee in October and interviewed both internal and external candidates, including Duchene, for the permanent CEO role.

“After thorough consideration and discussion, and recognizing Ms. Duchene’s strong performance during her term as interim CEO, the board unanimously agreed Ms. Duchene brings the leadership, integrity and innovative thinking necessary for the company’s continued success and growth.” said A. Robert Pisano, a member of the company’s board of directors and its lead independent director as well as member of the board’s search committee.

“I joined RGP because I wanted to be a part of a company with engaged and smart people dedicated to helping business and other organizations improve and grow,” Duchene said. “In this new role, I plan to build on the foundation that Don Murray and Tony Cherbak established. I believe that the best way to do this is to continue to do outstanding work for our clients.”