BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - James Leiman has been appointed North Dakota Commerce Commissioner after serving for three years as one of the agency’s directors, Gov. Doug Burgum announced Monday.
Leiman has been the department’s director of economic development and finance since March 2018. Prior to working for the state, Leiman served as city administrator in Ada, Minnesota from 2015 to 2018 nd as chief of integration and synchronization for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs from 2011 to 2015.
He replaces Michelle Kommer, who resigned in October to rejoin the private sector. Shawn Kessel filled in as interim commissioner for the last four months. Kessel will continue as the agency’s deputy commissioner and chief operating officer.
Burgum cited Leiman’s extensive background in enhancing organizations and his effective leadership as a Commerce Department director
“James is a transformational leader and change agent who has made a tremendously positive impact on our state’s economy and business climate during his tenure at the Department of Commerce,” Burgum said.
Leiman earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and economics at Pacific Lutheran University in Parkland, Washington; a master’s in public administration from The Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington; and a doctorate in transportation and logistics from North Dakota State University.
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