The state’s Deputy Economic Development Director Bernice Whaley is tapped to lead the office - pending senate confirmation.
Gov. Jack Markell (D) nominated Whaley Monday after longtime director Alan Levin announced he was stepping down last week.
She joined the Delaware Economic Development Office in 2009 soon after Levin took charge and worked for him previously at the Happy Harry’s drugstore chain serving as vice president of distribution and inventory management.
As deputy director, Whaley has overseen day-to-day operations at the agency and says she hopes to increase programs regarding marketing strategies and e-commerce.
Markell says he doesn’t foresee any partisan games from Republicans as she moves through the nomination process.
“I’m sure that all of us in Dover and throughout the state – no matter our party – want to see the economy continue to improve and I think that Bernice is very well positioned to help drive that work,” said Markell.
Levin is leaving at the end of June. The state senate must confirm Whaley before she takes the reins from Levin.
