Maureen Larsen is the Director of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED), having been appointed by Governor Jim Pillen in November 2025. Under her leadership, DED is reinforcing the competitive advantages that make The Good Life great for business. Director Larsen has prioritized strengthening the state’s workforce, supporting the development of innovative products and technologies by Nebraska-based startups, deepening public-private partnerships, and positioning Nebraska to lead the nation’s bioeconomy.

Prior to joining DED, Larsen served as General Counsel to Governor Pillen and Deputy Director of the Governor’s Policy Research Office. She has previously worked as a deputy county attorney for Lancaster County, Nebraska and as a law clerk for former Chief Justice Michael Heavican. She was also a small business owner and operator from 2004 to 2020, providing sign language interpretation services throughout the state.

Larsen completed her bachelor’s degree at the University of Vermont and earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Nebraska College of Law.

Larsen and her husband live in Gretna. They have three children and one grandchild.