Michael R. Sweeney in 2026 joined MassDevelopment as executive vice president of Devens Operations. In this role, Sweeney will serve as MassDevelopment’s lead staff person in Devens – with oversight of its departments of public safety (including fire and police), public works, recreation, and utilities – and serve as a member of the agency’s executive team.
Massachusetts Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley, who serves as Chair of MassDevelopment’s Board of Directors said “Michael Sweeney brings a strong background in economic development and public service, and we look forward to working with him to ensure Devens continues to grow as a center for jobs, housing, and regional opportunity while continuing to be a great place for people to live, work, and gather.”
MassDevelopment President and CEO Navjeet Bal said “Michael R. Sweeney will bring valued public-private sector experience and leadership to the role. With Devens playing an increasingly important role in fostering housing and economic development in north central Massachusetts, Michael is well positioned to build and strengthen partnerships across Devens, the region, and the state to further this exciting momentum.”
An executive leader with more than 25 years of experience in economic development, technology, government, real estate, and community development, Sweeney comes to MassDevelopment from Operation Able, a Boston-based nonprofit where he served as chief executive officer from 2024-2025. He previously held leadership roles as executive director of Fletcher Tilton, PC, executive director of the Massachusetts State Lottery, member of the Public Health Trust Fund Executive Committee and Illegal Tobacco Task Force, deputy general counsel for the Office of the State Treasurer, and planning director for the City of Lawrence. Sweeney holds a Juris Doctorate from the City University of New York Law School and a Bachelor of Arts in history from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.