TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Former Chief Financial Officer and unsuccessful Democratic gubernatorial nominee Alex Sink is back in business – in the private sector.

Sink is joining Tampa-based Hyde Park Capital as a senior adviser. She was narrowly defeated by Republican Rick Scott in the 2010 governor’s race last November.

The 62-year-old Sink said Friday that she will focus on business development and expanding client relationships for the firm that specializes in mergers and acquisitions. Hyde Park Capital also raises money for public and private companies in Florida and the southeast.

Sink served as president of the Bank of America’s Florida operations for several years before winning election as the state’s chief financial officer in 2006. Sink also said she plans to continue her work on starting a non-profit, nonpartisan policy foundation.

© 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Learn more about our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.