Governor Announces Leadership Changes

Liz Gullett

Mar 06, 2020

This week, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced leadership changes in key positions in state government. First, the governor recommended Mark Burton, her chief strategist, to serve as CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corp (MEDC). He has been involved with state government and politics for nearly two decades. Prior to his current role, Mr. Burton worked as Executive Director of the Tri-County Alliance for Public Education and served as the governor’s chief of staff during her time as Senate Democratic Leader. He would replace Jeff Mason, who is retiring after serving as CEO of MEDC since 2017. This week, the MEDC Board announced a nationwide search to select a permanent CEO, which will be conducted over the next few months.

Second, the governor named Department of Technology, Management, and Budget (DTMB) Director Tricia Foster as Chief Operating Officer for the state, a newly created position. She’s served as director of DTMB since her appointment in January 2019. She retired in 2016 as senior managing director and chief operating officer of a commercial and real estate development firm.

Lastly, Governor Whitmer appointed Brom Stibitz to serve as the chief information officer, managing all aspects of cybersecurity and information technology across state government. He has served as the chief deputy director of DTMB since 2015. Mr. Stibitz has also served in leadership roles at the Department of Treasury and the Michigan Legislature.

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