(DETROIT, MI) — Michigan Governor Rick Snyder named Lebanese-American businessman Nick Khouri the new state treasurer, who will replace outgoing treasurer Kevin Clinton, according to Snyder’s press office.
“Nick’s expertise in tax policies and financial issues will be a great asset as we continue working to reinvent state government,” Snyder said. “His strong track record of proven service in both the private and public sectors will be essential in this critical state role.”
Khouri, 57, previously served as senior vice president of corporate affairs at DTE Energy in Detroit, where he oversaw governmental and regulatory relations and community affairs.
He also served as vice president of Public Sector Consultants, where he focused on public infrastructure and state and local tax policy. In the 1990s, Khouri was the state’s chief deputy treasurer and chief economist of the Senate Fiscal Agency.
State records show Khouri has been a registered lobbyist for DTE since 2012, which drew criticism from some Democrats.
“Putting a registered lobbyist in charge of all taxpayer dollars is no way to create public trust in government,” said Democratic Party Chairman Lon Johnson.
Khouri earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from University of Michigan and a master’s degree in economics from Michigan State University.
Khouri’s appointment is effective April 20. His annual salary will be $174,204, according to state records.