Nebraska’s economic landscape is set for a shift as Gov. Jim Pillen has officially appointed Maureen Larsen to lead the state’s Department of Economic Development. This move comes after Larsen’s interim role since July 21, following the exit of former director K.C. Belitz.
With a history in the Policy Research Office and as general counsel to the governor, Larsen steps into the director’s role with a wealth of experience. Her leadership in the interim period has already garnered positive feedback. “Maureen has demonstrated strong leadership and a strong desire to continue supporting my cabinet as director of DED,” stated Gov. Pillen. He added, “I have been impressed with her abilities in the short time she has been serving in the interim role, and she deserves this opportunity.”
Larsen’s appointment awaits the Nebraska Legislature’s confirmation. If confirmed, she will become the department’s third director since the beginning of 2023. The previous director, Tony Goins, departed due to concerns over potential conflicts of interest related to his co-ownership of a cigar lounge in Lincoln. K.C. Belitz succeeded Goins before resigning himself.
Additionally, Gov. Pillen has named Michael Donley as the new general counsel, succeeding Larsen in this capacity. Donley’s credentials include serving as general counsel to the Nebraska Department of Administrative Services, with educational qualifications from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Harvard Law School, and the University of Oxford.
For further details on K.C. Belitz’s resignation, visit the original report.
