Section 9. The director of economic development may, subject to appropriation, appoint and remove all employees of the MOBD including directors, as may be necessary to carry out the work of MOBD. Unless otherwise provided by law, all such appointments and removals shall be made in accordance with chapter 31. From time to time, the director of economic development may, subject to appropriation and the laws and regulations pertaining to the employment of consultants, employ such consultants as he may deem necessary.