McGourthy named state economic development deputy secretary

Photo/Courtesy Timothy McGourthy

Write a Comment

By Grant Welker

Tim McGourthy, executive director of the Worcester Regional Research Bureau, has been hired as deputy secretary in the state's Executive Office of Housing & Economic Development.

The state announced the appointment Monday, a few days after McGourthy said he will leave the research bureau, where he's been the top official since 2014.

McGourthy, of Worcester, is a former chief development officer for the city of Worcester and CEO of the Worcester Redevelopment Authority from 2006 to 2014. He's also an adjunct faculty member at Clark University and a former director of policy at the Boston Redevelopment Authority.

McGourthy replaces Carolyn Kirk, who was named executive director of Massachusetts Technology Collaborative earlier this month. He will serve under Secretary Mike Kennealy, who himself is relatively new to the post. Kennealy replaced Jay Ash in December.

The Executive Office of Housing & Economic Development, which supports the state's economic and job growth initiatives, has a $1.4-billion budget and approximately 1,000 workers.

“Tim brings a wealth of policy expertise and a deep understanding of municipal government and collaboration at the regional and state level," Kennealy said in a statement. "His work in Massachusetts’ two largest cities, particularly the last 12 years in Worcester, has laid the foundation for a great deal of regional and statewide economic success, and I look forward to leveraging his insights and experiences as we work to spur new jobs and economic prosperity across the state.”

McGourthy has a bachelor’s degree in history from The College of William & Mary in Virginia, a master’s degree in government from The Johns Hopkins University in Maryland, and a master’s degree in public policy and urban planning from Harvard University.

The research bureau has put out a call for a new executive director, with preference given to those who apply by March 31.