Big Sky Economic Development (BSED) announced that Paul Green has been selected as the organization’s next Executive Director. Green has resigned his position as Director of the Montana Department of Commerce in order to accept the position. Green was appointed as Commerce director in January 2024.

BSED conducted a national search to replace retiring BSED Executive Director, Steve Arveschoug. Arveschoug will continue leading the organization through mid-April, to ensure a smooth transition. A start date for Green has not been determined; additional details will be announced as they become available.

The search for Arveschoug’s replacement was conducted by Jorgenson Pace, a search committee led by BSED Board Members and Montana State University Billings Chancellor Stefani Hicswa, along with other BSED board members and stakeholders.

Green brings extensive experience in economic and community development, project management, and public-private partnerships. As Director of the Montana Department of Commerce Green oversaw multiple divisions focused on business attraction, infrastructure development, tourism, housing, and economic growth. Throughout his career, he has led initiatives that drive job creation, streamline regulations, and enhance stakeholder engagement. His leadership spans roles in both public and private sectors, including serving as Executive Director of the Montana Business Incubator and Two Rivers Economic Development Authority, where he successfully implemented strategic growth initiatives, secured major infrastructure investments, and worked with business and government leaders to foster economic resilience.

“Our selection committee worked hard to find an Executive Director who can lead our organization into the future,” said Nick Pancheau, EDC Board Chair, “As one of the leading Economic Development Organizations in the state with a talented team, it was important to select a candidate that both understands our local economy, and one who is ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work on day one. We believe we have found those attributes in Paul Green and we look forward to his leadership.”

“I am very pleased that the results of our national search resulted in an outstanding pool of highly qualified applicants,” said Chancellor Stefani Hicswa, “Paul will serve us well as our new Executive Director. I appreciate the hard work of the search committee and the excellent feedback from staff and stakeholders.”

Debbie Desjarlais, BSED EDA Board Chair, commented, “I’m pleased with the outcome of the search. The search committee, along with Jorgenson Pace, has worked long and hard on this search. I believe Paul Green is the right person at this time for BSED. Congratulations, Paul. We have the greatest confidence in the world of future success. Not just for the organization, but for the city of Billings.”

Governor Greg Gianforte has appointed Deputy Director Mandy Rambo as acting leader of the Department of Commerce.