George Hansen, Gov. Sam Brownback’s nominee for secretary of commerce, withdrew his name from consideration Tuesday, saying an extended family member has “extensive business dealings” with the agency.

A statement from Brownback’s office gave no further details.

“I respect George’s decision and have reluctantly accepted his request to withdraw his name,” Brownback said. “I know him to be a man of integrity who would have served Kansas well.”

Brownback announced his nomination Aug. 21, citing his “35 years of experience managing domestic and international businesses.”

Most recently, he was president and CEO of the Enterprise Center of Johnson County, a venture development organization and early stage business incubator serving the Kansas City metropolitan area.

The Department of Commerce is the state’s lead economic development agency. It has a budget of $113 million and administers the state’s business, community and workforce development programs.

Hansen would have replaced Pat George, who retired as Commerce Secretary in July. His appointment was subject to Senate confirmation.