The former executive director of Worcester law firm Fletcher Tilton and the Massachusetts State Lottery has been selected by MassDevelopment to serve as the agency’s lead staffer in Devens.
Michael Sweeney’s new role will have him overseeing departments of public safety, public works, recreation, and utilities, as well as serving as a member of the agency’s executive team, according to a MassDevelopment press release on Friday.
Devens, a regional enterprise zone in Ayer and Shirley comprised of a former U.S. Army base, is home to locations for a number of prominent firms, including Commonwealth Fusion Systems, VulcanForms, and Electric Hydrogen. Already a business hub, MassDevelopment is working to develop more housing in Devens.
“Devens demonstrates what is possible when strategic planning, infrastructure investment, strong partnerships, and a commitment to community come together,” Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley, who serves as chair of MassDevelopment’s board, said in the press release. “Michael Sweeney brings a strong background in economic development and public service, and we look forward to working with him to ensure Devens continues to grow as a center for jobs, housing, and regional opportunity while continuing to be a great place for people to live, work, and gather.”
Sweeney most recently served as CEO of Operation Able, a Boston-based nonprofit assisting job seekers with training programs and employment services. Sweeney served as the head of the Massachusetts State Lottery from 2015 to 2022. He formerly served as the executive director of Fletcher Tilton and as deputy general counsel for the state treasurer’s office.
Sweeney replaces interim Devens leader Meg Delorier, who took on that position in 2022 before leaving in October, according to The Harvard Press. Jessica Strunkin was last executive to serve in the role on a non-interim basis.
Sweeney joins MassDevelopment shortly after the agency announced it hired Sandi Wolchansky Silk as its executive vice president of real estate in February.
Eric Casey is the managing editor at Worcester Business Journal, who primarily covers the real estate and banking & finance industries.
