ANNAPOLIS, MD –Governor Martin O’Malley today announced the appointment of Kenneth J. Mallette as Executive Director of the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA).
“Our most solemn obligation as public servants is to ensure the safety of our people,” said Governor O’Malley. “I am pleased that Ken has chosen to step up and serve as we work to build a safer, more resilient Maryland. He brings with him a wealth of experience and vital crisis management skills that will make certain our citizens are better prepared when a disaster strikes.”
The Governor continued, “I’d also like to thank Richard Muth for his leadership and willingness to serve in tough times. Thanks to his hard work over the years, MEMA is better prepared to handle emergencies as demonstrated through his calm and steady hand during Hurricane Irene.”
“I am honored and excited about joining Governor O’Malley’s Administration,” said Mr. Mallette. “I look forward to working with the good people of the Maryland Emergency Management Agency, and our public and private sector partners in support of the mission of making Maryland residents and visitors safe.”
Mr. Mallette comes to the State of Maryland with over 35 years of first responder and executive level management experience in the public and private sector. Ken, was the Vice President of Preparedness Services for Witt Associates, a Washington, DC-based crisis and risk management firm headed by former FEMA Director James Lee Witt. Ken retired from the New Jersey State Police as a Captain and was assigned to several leadership positions including Chief of the Emergency Management Bureau and Executive Officer in the Homeland Security Branch. He is a life time member of Jackson #1 Volunteer Fire Company, a combination career/volunteer fire department in Jackson, NJ. He started volunteering in 1977 and has held every administrative and operational position including five years as Chief of the Department.
Mr. Mallette will assume his new role on May 21st.
For additional information, contact: Erin Valentine, MEP Exercise Program Administrator Maryland Emergency Management Agency Phone: (410) 517-3648 Email: erin.valentine@maryland.gov