Michelle Hataway new Acting Director of Department of Economic Development 

(Jefferson City, MO) – Today, Governor Mike Parson announced that Michelle Hataway will serve as Acting Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) following Maggie Kost’s departure. Hataway’s appointment is effective immediately. 

“Michelle is a valued leader at DED, and we are excited to see her take on this new role,” Governor Parson said. “Missouri’s economy is strong. Businesses are growing, investing, and creating jobs in our state, providing even greater economic opportunity for Missourians. We look forward to Michelle’s leadership as we continue to expand on our accomplishments and do even more for the people of Missouri.”

“I’m honored and excited for the opportunity to lead this excellent team in helping Missourians prosper,” Michelle Hataway, Acting Director of the Department of Economic Development, said.

“Economic development takes collaboration, and we’re fortunate in Missouri to have a wide range of supportive partners across the public and private sectors,” she added. “I look forward to continuing our work together while leading DED’s initiatives to strengthen businesses, communities, and our economy as a whole.”

In her more than seven years with DED, Hataway has served as Regional Manager, Deputy Director, and Director of the Division of Regional Engagement. Most recently, she served as Deputy Director of DED. Prior to joining the department, Hataway held positions with her family’s 90-year-old business and at Netflix. Hataway will also serve as President of the Missouri Economic Development Council, effective July 2023.

Hataway earned a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in communication studies from the University of Alabama.