Home » Board to begin national search for Economic Development Cabinet Secretary

Board to begin national search for Economic Development Cabinet Secretary

Secretary Larry Hayes to retire later this year

FRANKFORT, Ky.  (May 21, 2015) — Gov. Steve Beshear today announced plans to conduct a national search to fill the role of secretary for the Kentucky Economic Development Cabinet. Current Secretary Larry Hayes announced his intent to retire from the position later this year, ending a seven-year tenure in the role.

“Larry Hayes has been an invaluable member of my executive cabinet, leading the state’s economic development efforts out of the depths of a severe recession to record high investment, exports and activity,” Beshear said. “It is important that the state not lose any momentum. I have asked the Partnership Board to begin the search process immediately so that we can ensure a seamless transition.”

The Executive Committee of the Partnership Board will appoint a search committee to prepare a formal request for proposals, enabling the board to contract with a national search firm. The successful firm will be responsible for conducting an extensive search to identify a pool of highly qualified candidates. The board will select a minimum of three finalists to present to the Governor.

No firm departure date has been set for Hayes to step down. Timing will be based upon completion of a successful transition period so not to disrupt ongoing project activities and discussions.