April 12, 2016
Key position changes designed to continue culture shift in state government
Tuesday, April 12, 2016
LANSING, Mich. – Gov. Rick Snyder today announced several senior staff changes within his executive office, as well as a new director at the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.
“Improving the culture of state government to ensure we are continuing to put people first is as important in my office as it is across all departments,” Snyder said. “The people I’m appointing to these new roles understand that our state faces many challenges right now but that in Michigan we don’t shy away from problems – we tackle them head on to make things better for everyone.”
Elizabeth Clement, currently the governor’s deputy chief of staff and cabinet secretary, will become chief legal counsel. Clement has been with the executive office since Jan. 2011, and previously served as deputy legal counsel. She replaces Jim Redford, who was previously named interim director of the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency.
Mike Zimmer, director of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, will become the governor’s cabinet director, responsible for coordinating efforts with department directors and staff. The new director for LARA will be Shelly Edgerton, who is currently chief deputy director of the department. Edgerton’s appointment is subject to advice and consent of the state Senate.
Beth Emmitt, who has served as the governor’s director of scheduling since Jan. 2011, will take over as deputy chief of staff. She previously served for eight years in the executive office of former Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land.
Anna Heaton, currently the governor’s deputy press secretary, will become press secretary. Heaton has worked for the governor since March 2015. Prior to joining the executive office, Heaton was deputy director of caucus communications under former House Speaker Jase Bolger.
Josh Paciorek, communications manager for the governor, is being promoted to deputy press secretary. Paciorek has been with the executive office since Jan. 2015.
####
