Agency to draw upon the seasoned professional's administrative, policy, management and intergovernmental experience in a consolidated role, will serve as primary EDC liaison to Governor's office
Following the recommendations of the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council (RIPEC) and others to form stronger ties between the Governor's office and the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC), Governor Lincoln D. Chafee and RIEDC Managing Director of Business & Community Development William Parsons announced today that John R. (J.R.) Pagliarini has been appointed as the agency's Chief of Staff. Pagliarini brings nearly 30 years of experience in strategic planning, organizational development, government relations, policy development, marketing communications, program evaluation and performance management. The new role was developed to establish a liaison between the Governor and the agency with the long-term objective of making the RIEDC as effective as possible in its mission to help existing Rhode Island businesses grow. The selection came after discussions and interviews with potential candidates.
"RIPEC and others, in looking at economic development in the State of Rhode Island, have expressed the need for an individual who can ensure that the Governor's vision is being executed and that there is strong communication, coordination and accountability between the EDC and the Governor's office," said William Parsons, Executive Director Nominee and the Managing Director of Business & Community Development for the RIEDC. "J.R. is a seasoned leader who is multi-talented in operational management as well as intergovernmental and public affairs experience to work with a range of external stakeholders. He knows how to build consensus, create accountability and motivate teams to do their best."
"Restoring out state's economy is among the greatest challenges facing our state. I welcome the opportunity to help restore confidence in the RIEDC by providing the assistance necessary to allow Rhode Island businesses to grow and create jobs. My many years of experience working in all three levels of government - federal, state, local - along with health care, education and the non-profit community, gives me great insight into the needs of our state's largest employers," said John "JR" Pagliarini.
In his long career in government, healthcare and higher education, Pagliarini previously served as Chief of Staff and Senior Executive Advisor for the City of Providence, Associate Commissioner of Higher Education, and Interim Director of the Rhode Island College Foundation, Associate Commissioner for the Board of Governors for Higher Education, Deputy Chief of Staff for Governor Carcieri, State Director for Senator Lincoln Chafee, Director of Government Relations for United Healthcare, Communications Director for the City of Warwick.
Pagliarini received his Masters of Arts in Public Affairs from George Washington University and his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Fairfield University. He graduated high school from Bishop Hendricken.
The Warwick Resident begins his role at the RIEDC on January 4, 2013.