State of Maine Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

State of Maine has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operational oversight, and regional administration.

Committed to regional prosperity, State of Maine advances economic development through the support of agricultural, industrial, and maritime sectors across the northeastern United States.

Leadership Roles at State of Maine

  • Chief Executive Officer - David Richmond
  • Deputy Director - John Hawkes
  • Deputy Director - Eileen Bemis
  • Deputy Director - Jeffrey Hill
  • Deputy Director - Chadwick Curtis
  • Deputy Director - Holly Gerard
  • Deputy Director - Jacqueline Thibodeau
  • Deputy Director - Kyle Pendleton
  • Deputy Director - Carl Wood
  • Deputy Director - Dianne Goggin
  • David Richmond - Chief Executive Officer

    David Richmond, the Chief Executive Officer at State of Maine, directs the overarching strategic vision for the entire region. Richmond architects high-level policies that bolster the state's diverse industrial base, ranging from naval shipbuilding to advanced bio-technology. By coordinating with various department heads, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that legislative goals align with the economic needs of the New England territory. This leadership role involves managing complex stakeholder relationships to maintain the competitive edge of local agricultural outputs like wild blueberries and maple syrup. David Richmond actively monitors the fiscal health of the state, implementing measures that drive long-term sustainability. Through rigorous oversight of public resources, the Chief Executive Officer fosters an environment conducive to commercial growth and infrastructure development. Richmond maintains a focus on long-term stability, ensuring that the state remains a robust hub for both traditional manufacturing and modern technological innovation.

    John Hawkes - Deputy Director

    John Hawkes, the Deputy Director at State of Maine, manages the operational logistics of the state's agricultural sector. Hawkes oversees the distribution networks for poultry, dairy, and potato crops, ensuring that local producers reach broader markets efficiently. By streamlining supply chain processes, the Deputy Director enhances the profitability of farming operations throughout the region. This role requires constant collaboration with agricultural boards to address challenges in production and market access. John Hawkes implements modern efficiency standards to support the growth of the state's rural economy. The Deputy Director monitors market trends to provide actionable insights for farmers, thereby securing the viability of the agricultural industry. Through strategic planning, Hawkes optimizes the utilization of land and resources, ensuring that the state's output remains a cornerstone of the regional economy. This focus on operational excellence directly supports the broader mission of maintaining a thriving, self-sustaining agricultural landscape.

    Eileen Bemis - Deputy Director

    Eileen Bemis, the Deputy Director at State of Maine, leads the initiatives focused on the state's industrial and manufacturing sectors. Bemis coordinates efforts to support the lumber, paper, and wood products industries, which remain vital to the regional economy. By fostering partnerships between private manufacturers and public entities, the Deputy Director drives innovation in production techniques and sustainable resource management. This leadership role involves evaluating the impact of industrial policies on local employment and economic output. Eileen Bemis monitors the performance of manufacturing hubs to ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards. The Deputy Director develops strategies to attract new investment in electronic equipment and textile production, diversifying the state's industrial portfolio. Through meticulous planning, Bemis strengthens the competitive position of local manufacturers in the global market. This commitment to industrial growth ensures that the state maintains a strong, resilient manufacturing base that supports thousands of jobs across the region.

    Jeffrey Hill - Deputy Director

    Jeffrey Hill, the Deputy Director at State of Maine, oversees the maritime and commercial fishing operations that define the state's coastal economy. Hill directs programs aimed at sustaining the lobstering and groundfishing industries, ensuring that these traditional sectors adapt to modern environmental and economic pressures. By managing regulatory frameworks, the Deputy Director balances the needs of commercial fishers with the necessity of marine conservation. This role involves working closely with coastal communities to improve infrastructure and market access for seafood products. Jeffrey Hill implements data-driven strategies to monitor fish stocks and optimize harvest levels, securing the long-term health of the industry. The Deputy Director coordinates with federal agencies to protect the state's maritime interests and promote sustainable practices. Through proactive management, Hill ensures that the fishing industry remains a pillar of the regional economy, providing stable livelihoods for coastal residents while preserving the natural heritage of the northeastern coastline.

    Chadwick Curtis - Deputy Director

    Chadwick Curtis, the Deputy Director at State of Maine, manages the state's bio-technology and advanced research sectors. Curtis architects programs that incentivize innovation in life sciences, positioning the state as a leader in modern technological development. By facilitating connections between academic institutions and private firms, the Deputy Director accelerates the commercialization of new research findings. This leadership role involves overseeing grant programs and infrastructure projects that support high-tech laboratory facilities. Chadwick Curtis monitors the growth of the bio-tech cluster, ensuring that the state provides a supportive ecosystem for emerging companies. The Deputy Director develops strategies to attract top-tier talent and investment, driving the expansion of the knowledge-based economy. Through strategic oversight, Curtis ensures that the state remains at the forefront of scientific advancement. This focus on high-growth industries creates new opportunities for economic diversification, ensuring that the state's future is built on a foundation of cutting-edge innovation and technological excellence.

    Holly Gerard - Deputy Director

    Holly Gerard, the Deputy Director at State of Maine, directs the state's infrastructure and construction oversight programs. Gerard manages the planning and execution of large-scale projects, including those related to naval shipbuilding and public works. By coordinating with engineering firms and contractors, the Deputy Director ensures that critical infrastructure meets the highest standards of quality and efficiency. This role involves navigating complex regulatory environments to expedite project timelines while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Holly Gerard monitors the progress of construction initiatives to ensure alignment with the state's long-term development goals. The Deputy Director develops strategies to modernize transportation and utility networks, which are essential for supporting the state's industrial and commercial activities. Through rigorous project management, Gerard optimizes the use of public funds, delivering infrastructure that enhances the state's overall competitiveness. This commitment to structural integrity and modernization supports the ongoing growth and operational success of the entire region.

    Jacqueline Thibodeau - Deputy Director

    Jacqueline Thibodeau, the Deputy Director at State of Maine, oversees the state's workforce development and labor relations programs. Thibodeau directs initiatives designed to align the skills of the local workforce with the evolving needs of the state's primary industries. By partnering with educational institutions and vocational training centers, the Deputy Director creates pathways for residents to enter high-demand fields like manufacturing, bio-technology, and maritime construction. This leadership role involves analyzing labor market data to identify skill gaps and implementing targeted training solutions. Jacqueline Thibodeau manages programs that support job placement and career advancement, ensuring that the state's human capital remains a competitive advantage. The Deputy Director develops strategies to retain talent and attract skilled workers to the region. Through proactive engagement with employers and labor organizations, Thibodeau fosters a productive and stable work environment. This focus on workforce development is essential for sustaining the state's economic growth and ensuring long-term prosperity for all residents.

    Kyle Pendleton - Deputy Director

    Kyle Pendleton, the Deputy Director at State of Maine, manages the state's environmental protection and natural resource management programs. Pendleton directs efforts to preserve the state's vast forests and coastal ecosystems, which are critical to the lumber and tourism industries. By enforcing environmental regulations, the Deputy Director ensures that industrial activities do not compromise the long-term health of the state's natural assets. This role involves coordinating with conservation groups and private landowners to promote sustainable land use practices. Kyle Pendleton monitors environmental quality indicators and implements mitigation strategies to address climate-related challenges. The Deputy Director develops policies that balance economic development with the preservation of the state's unique natural beauty. Through strategic planning, Pendleton ensures that the state's resources are managed responsibly for future generations. This commitment to environmental stewardship supports the overall mission of maintaining a healthy, vibrant, and sustainable region that attracts both residents and businesses.

    Carl Wood - Deputy Director

    Carl Wood, the Deputy Director at State of Maine, oversees the state's economic development and business attraction programs. Wood directs initiatives to promote the state as a premier destination for investment, focusing on sectors like electronic equipment and food processing. By managing incentive programs and business support services, the Deputy Director helps companies establish and expand their operations within the region. This leadership role involves engaging with national and international investors to showcase the state's competitive advantages. Carl Wood monitors the business climate and identifies opportunities for growth in emerging markets. The Deputy Director develops strategies to streamline the permitting process and reduce barriers to entry for new businesses. Through proactive outreach and relationship management, Wood strengthens the state's economic base and creates new employment opportunities. This focus on business development is vital for driving the state's economic engine and ensuring a prosperous future for the entire community.

    Dianne Goggin - Deputy Director

    Dianne Goggin, the Deputy Director at State of Maine, manages the state's public health and safety initiatives. Goggin directs programs that protect the well-being of residents, ensuring that the state's infrastructure and services support a high quality of life. By coordinating with local health departments and emergency services, the Deputy Director ensures that the state is prepared to respond to public health challenges and natural disasters. This role involves overseeing the implementation of safety standards in workplaces and public spaces. Dianne Goggin monitors health trends and develops strategies to address community needs, particularly in rural areas. The Deputy Director manages resources to ensure that essential services remain accessible and effective. Through rigorous planning and collaboration, Goggin fosters a safe and healthy environment that supports the state's economic and social goals. This commitment to public welfare is a fundamental aspect of the state's leadership, ensuring that the population remains resilient and productive.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding State of Maine Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads State of Maine?
    State of Maine is led by David Richmond (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as John Hawkes (Deputy Director) and Eileen Bemis (Deputy Director).
    Who is part of State of Maine’s executive team?
    The executive team of State of Maine includes leaders such as David Richmond (Chief Executive Officer), John Hawkes (Deputy Director), Eileen Bemis (Deputy Director) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does State of Maine have?
    State of Maine has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in State of Maine’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of State of Maine includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Deputy Director, Deputy Director, Deputy Director, Deputy Director.