Former Almond staffer Michael DiBiase to join Raimondo administration

GOV.-ELECT GINA M. Raimondo plans to nominate Michael DiBiase as her director of administration. The appointment is pending confirmation by the state Senate. / COURTESY LINKEDIN
GOV.-ELECT GINA M. Raimondo plans to nominate Michael DiBiase as her director of administration. The appointment is pending confirmation by the state Senate. / COURTESY LINKEDIN

PROVIDENCE – Gov.-elect Gina M. Raimondo said she plans to appoint former Gov. Lincoln Almond’s chief of staff, Michael DiBiase, as her director of administration.
Raimondo said she will submit his name for consideration to the state Senate in January for confirmation.
She also appointed Jonathan Womer, former deputy director in the state office of budget management for the governor of North Carolina, to lead the Office of Management and Budget.
Womer is currently associate vice president for finance and economic analysis for the University of North Carolina system.

“The Department of Administration has a key role in developing the state’s budget, and improving and streamlining government operations and regulations so we can deliver the services Rhode Islanders deserve,” Raimondo said in a statement. “By adding Mike and Jonathan to our team, we will be gaining invaluable years of experience in problem solving and producing results as we move our state forward.”

A 14-year veteran of Fidelity Investments, DiBiase serves as senior vice president for state government relations and public affairs, overseeing state and local government relations for the financial services company.

“We are excited to add more great people to our team,” Joy Fox, transition director, said. “When it comes to personnel, we are focused more on quality than on moving quickly. We are making great progress, but we fully expect to continue filling positions even after Inauguration Day.”
Raimondo also appointed Peter Gaynor to lead the R.I. Department of Emergency Management.
“Pete Gaynor has done an outstanding job as the head of emergency management for the city of Providence, and I know he will serve all Rhode Islanders with the same dedication, expertise and professionalism,” Raimondo said. “His military background and extensive training will help us prepare for emergency situations and keep Rhode Island families safe.”

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Before joining the Providence Emergency Management Agency as director in 2008, Gaynor served 26 years in the United States Marine Corps.
Raimondo said outgoing EMA Director Jamia McDonald would continue to serve in state government.
“Jamia has served Rhode Island with leadership and professionalism,” Raimondo said. “We are confident that she will continue to serve ably, as she has for the past two administrations, in a new role in state government.”
Gaynor said he is looking forward to the opportunity to contribute his skills to keeping Rhode Islanders safe during emergencies.

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