Ryan Ray
Jesse Panuccio, veteran of fierce battles with lawmakers over his boss Gov. Rick Scott‘s business incentive programs, is set to leave the Department of Economic Opportunity he has led since 2013.
Panuccio tendered his resignation Friday. He said the decision was bittersweet, though he said it was “time for a new chapter in my career and life.”
Scott released a statement Friday morning saying Panuccio “will be moving on from his position in January to pursue new opportunities.”
“Jesse has been a loyal and trusted adviser since the start of my administration and has worked on major issues including economic policy, dozens of judicial appointments, and significant litigation on behalf of Florida families,” said Scott Friday.
At press time, whether he was asked to leave by the administration or tendered his leaving papers on his own was unclear.
Scott’s comments, in either case, were warm upon the occasion of Panuccio’s exit.
“While at DEO, so much has been accomplished under his leadership. He has helped grow jobs by streamlining the economic development process and has protected taxpayer money by instituting new accountability measures,” Scott continued. “Jesse has made fighting fraud in the unemployment system a top priority, and the agency has stopped tens of thousands of fraudulent claims. He has also been a strong advocate for pro-growth policies, lower taxes, and has tirelessly worked to ensure Florida families can get a good education, a great job, and live in safe communities.”
Before becoming Executive Director at DEO two years ago, Panuccio served as Deputy General Counsel at the governor’s office, later becoming Scott’s General Counsel.
Panuccio’s last day on the job is January 8, according to the governor’s office.
