Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen has officially appointed Maureen Larsen as the director of the state’s Department of Economic Development. Larsen, who had been serving in an acting capacity since July 21 after the departure of K.C. Belitz, will now be considered for the permanent role pending legislative confirmation.
Before taking on the interim leadership role, Larsen held key positions including deputy director of the Policy Research Office and served as legal counsel to the governor. Her background in policy and law has contributed to her effective management of the department during the transition period.
Governor Pillen expressed confidence in her capabilities, highlighting her strong leadership and dedication to supporting economic growth in Nebraska. Should the Legislature approve her nomination, Larsen will become the third person to lead the department since 2023, following the exits of Tony Goins and Belitz—both of whom left under circumstances tied to professional conflicts.
Additionally, Michael Donley has been named the new general counsel to the governor, succeeding Larsen in that legal role. Donley previously served in a similar legal capacity within the Department of Administrative Services and is an alumnus of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Harvard Law School, and the University of Oxford.
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Pillen appoints Maureen Larsen as state Economic Development director • Nebraska Examiner
Pillen appoints Maureen Larsen as state Economic Development director Nebraska Examiner