Gov. Pat McCrory has appointed Winston-Salem resident Linda Morrison Combs as controller for the state of North Carolina.<br /><br />It's a familiar role for Combs, who has served as controller of the United States along with other roles under three U.S. presidents.<br /><br />"Linda Morrison Combs brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Controller's Office, as well as a love for her native North Carolina," McCrory said. "Her considerable expertise will greatly benefit the state's taxpayers."<br /><br />Combs served as U.S. controller from 2005 to 2007 under former President George W. Bush and routinely briefed the president on the status of financial management within federal departments along with heading the Chief Financial Officers Council for the government and establishing financial management policies and requirements for the executive branch.<br /><br />Additionally, she has served as chief financial officer at the Environmental Protection Agency and as assistant secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation.<br /><br />Earlier this year, Combs was appointed to a new commission formed to review investment practices regarding the state's $83 billion pension fund and then present reform recommendations to the legislature.<br /><br />As controller, Combs is subject to legislative confirmation. She is slated to take office on May 5.