May 30, 2006
LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced the appointment of Robert W. Swanson as director of the Department of Labor and Economic Growth (DLEG). Swanson, of Lansing, has been serving as acting director of DLEG since February 3, 2006.
“Bob Swanson’s commitment to our economic plan is second to none,” Granholm said today. “Following Dave Hollister’s departure, Bob quickly took the reins of the department and has exercised his leadership in ways large and small. He is a capable leader who will continue to move our economic plan forward as we diversify our economy by creating jobs today and jobs tomorrow.”
During his tenure at DLEG, Swanson has overseen implementation of several of the Governor’s key economic transformation initiatives, including:
• placement of 30,000 workers into jobs through the MI Opportunity Partnership;
• streamlining of permitting and licensing through the Michigan Timely Application Permit Service (MiTAPS);
• launch of the 2006 Cool Cities Grants and Planning Program; and,
• administration of more than $30 million in U.S. Department of Labor investments in regional development through the Workforce Innovation for Regional Economic Development (WIRED) program.
As deputy director of DLEG from 2003 to 2006, Mr. Swanson coordinated and directed various agencies within DLEG including MIOSHA, the Office of Financial and Insurance Services, the Public Service Commission, Tax Tribunal, Career Education, the Bureau of Commercial Services, and various administrative programs. He was also involved with the development of the state’s urban policy agenda, the Land Use Leadership Council, Cherry Commission, workforce development and economic development initiatives.
Swanson also served as director of finance for the city of Lansing from 1995 to 2002 and staff director of the House Committee on Taxation for the Michigan House of Representative from 1986 to 1994. Swanson has more than 33 years of state and local government service since he first became employed by the State of Michigan with the Department of Treasury as an economic analyst in 1973. He obtained his political science bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in history from Michigan State University.
Mr. Swanson is appointed for a term expiring at the pleasure of the Governor. He replaces David Hollister who has resigned.
This appointment is subject to Article V, Section 6 of the Michigan State Constitution of 1963. It stands confirmed unless disapproved by the Senate within 60 days.
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