MTI names interim leader after Martin's ouster

The Maine Technology Institute has named a top state business development official as its interim leader, days after Gov. Paul LePage abruptly fired former President Robert Martin.

The Bangor Daily News reported that Brian Whitney, director of business development and innovation for the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development, was approved as MTI’s acting director by its board of directors on Monday.

Whitney, who previously served as director of outreach and economic development for former U.S. Sen. Olympia Snowe, is expected to serve until a permanent replacement is nominated by LePage and subsequently approved by the Maine Senate, which reconvenes in January 2015. A new executive committee set up by MTI’s board will advise Whitney and review applicants for the permanent position.

Board Chairwoman Linda Diou told the BDN that MTI’s loan and grant programs will not experience any interruptions as a result of the leadership transition. The organization, which was create by the Maine Legislature in 1999, has funded 1,295 technology projects for Maine startups since 2000 with “a financial commitment of $106 million that has leveraged over $173 million in additional funding for a total of $280 million,” according to its website.

LePage’s administration has remained mum on Martin’s abrupt firing, with DECD Commissioner George Gervais reiterating to the BDN that it was a personnel matter.

A group of Democratic state legislators have since called on LePage to reveal more information surrounding the nature of Martin’s ouster.

In a statement to the BDN last week, Martin said he “sought to challenge the status quo, remain apolitical and fiercely defended the independent status of the organization and the rules for its investments.”

Martin’s predecessor, Betsy Biemann, resigned suddenly in 2012, providing no official explanation for her departure. However, she had been an outspoken critic of LePage’s decision to veto a $20 million research and development bond.

Whitney nominated to lead MTI

Senate confirms Whitney for MTI post