Frank McKay of Gainesville has been appointed chairman of the State Board of Workers’ Compensation by Gov. Nathan Deal.

McKay, who is a partner at the Gainesville law firm Stewart, Melvin & Frost, fills the spot left by outgoing Chairman Richard Thompson. The appointment takes effect March 1.

McKay is a former special assistant attorney general representing the state in workers’ compensation claims, according to a news release from the governor’s office. He practiced law before the Board of Workers’ Compensation for 22 years.

He also has served on the State Board’s Advisory Council.

McKay earned a bachelor of arts degree in economics from Clemson University and his law degree from Walter F. George School of Law at Mercer University.