Governor Gina M. Raimondo and Commerce Secretary Stefan Pryor today announced the appointment of Elizabeth Tanner to lead the state Department of Business Regulation. In addition, Governor Raimondo announced her appointment of Mark A. Furcolo to lead the state Department of Revenue.
"Since 2015, we've made real progress in improving Rhode Island's climate for businesses," Raimondo said. "We have the lowest corporate tax rate in New England, and we've eliminated the commercial sales tax on energy. We've also cut through the red tape for businesses looking to relocate or expand in our state, making it easier for them to contribute to our economy and create jobs. I am confident that Liz and Mark will keep this momentum going strong in their new roles."
"Both Liz and Mark are talented professionals with vast experience and expertise," said Rhode Island Secretary of Commerce Stefan Pryor. "We're fortunate that they are committing themselves to these key agencies and assignments. In Liz's case, I'm grateful for her continuing service and thank her for taking on this new challenge."
Elizabeth M. Tanner, Esq., is currently the Executive Vice President of Client Services at the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation, overseeing the Business Navigation Center and the Statewide Action Team (STAT) as well as all interactions between the agency and the public. She also works on special projects with an aim to improve the interactions between business and government. She previously owned a law practice for nearly 10 years in Bristol and was part owner of a real estate specialty service business that was acquired in the fall of 2014. Tanner earned her undergraduate degree in political science from the University of Rhode Island and her law degree from the Western New England University School of Law. She lives in Bristol.
As Director of the Department of Business Regulation, Tanner will continue the Administration's work to make Rhode Island an better place to do business. She will directly oversee the implementation of state laws mandating the regulation and licensing of designated businesses, professions and occupations, among other activities. She will replace former Director Scottye Lindsey, who left state service in September.
"Rhode Island is a great place to live, work and do business," Tanner said. "I look forward to building on the work I've done at Commerce to make our state even more welcoming to business, and thank the Governor for the chance to serve in this new role."
Mark A. Furcolo, MBA, is an accomplished business and finance professional. Most recently, he served as a Senior Vice President at Dealertrack Technologies, a provider of on-demand dealership software for the auto industry. He previously worked at triVIN, a business offering online motor vehicle processing and lien and title management solutions, serving in roles including Chief Financial Officer, and subsequently the President and Chief Executive Officer. Dealertrack Technologies acquired triVIN in 2011. Prior to that, Furcolo served as a Vice President of Finance at GE Capital. He holds an MBA and undergraduate degree from the University of Rhode Island. He grew up in Westerly and now lives in Wakefield.
As Director of the Department of Revenue, Furcolo will oversee the department's four state divisions: Lottery, Motor Vehicles, Municipal Finance and Taxation, as well as the Office of Revenue Analysis. He will manage a department of more than 500 employees and a more than $525 million budget for this fiscal year. He will replace former Director Rob Hull, who left state service in September.
"As a native Rhode Islander, I am excited to give back to my home state through public service, and am thankful to Governor Raimondo for this opportunity," Furcolo said.
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