Executive moves

Leah Bruns succeeds Brian Frost, who resigned in August 2025 after two years in the role.

A roundup of new hires, promotions and achievements at businesses, nonprofits, health care institutions and professional services firms in Maine.

Sean Lockwood succeeds Al Noyes, who has served as CEO and will continue as chairman of the board, partnering closely with Lockwood to accelerate the company's next phase of growth.

SMRT's appointments of Ben Halleck and Andrew Tyner reflect a strategic focus on environments including advanced battery technology, aerospace, defense manufacturing and lab research.

Previously the organization's COO, Vendt had stepped into the role of interim leader this past July, following the departure of former CEO Rob Gray.

As the company expands its client base and services, the transition provides stability and added leadership capacity as the company continues to grow.

Longtime New England Business Media CEO Peter Stanton is set to retire. Tom Curtin, a partner in the firm, now takes over as CEO and sole owner.

Similar to rock stars taking breaks from touring and college graduates spending a “gap year” to travel or volunteer, a growing number of business and nonprofit leaders are giving themselves time-outs of a year or more to reset.

The new president also serves as a director for the National Association of Realtors. In 2024, Maine’s real estate industry accounted for or 19.5% of Maine’s gross state product.

L.L.Bean has promoted top retail executive Greg Elder to succeed Stephen Smith as president and CEO, the...