CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Gov. Jim Justice announced Thursday evening that West Virginia Department of Economic Development Secretary Mitch Carmichael will be stepping away from his role.
Carmichael, who has been in the role since its invention in 2021, will be moving into the private sector. Mike Graney will now take over the position.
Carmichael, in a statement, says he’s thankful to have worked alongside Justice.
“It’s been an honor to serve under Governor Justice, and I thank him for the opportunity to bring his economic vision to life in this role,” Carmichael said. “By every measure, we’ve delivered historically significant and transformative improvements for the benefit of West Virginia’s long-term economic vitality. Our incredible work has resulted in more jobs, more investment, more broadband connectivity, more energy, and more community advancement than at any time in the history of West Virginia. I am forever grateful to have been part of the revitalization of West Virginia’s economy.”
Graney, who will take Carmichael’s place, has served as the Executive Director of the West Virginia Development Office, and most recently the Executive Director of the Department of Economic Development.