Melanie Brown

Melanie Brown is the State Executive Ombudsman for the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Her primary responsibility is to act as a link between the state government and the business and employer community, providing impartial and independent assistance in resolving issues related to state agency and administration. In this capacity, Brown leverages critical relationships across state departments, economic development partners, statewide service providers and federal government agencies as she offers guidance and problem solving to promote the business climate across the state. With her keen eye for detail and solutions-oriented, strategic mindset, she collaborates with various stakeholders to identify opportunities for growth and innovation to ensure Michigan businesses stay strong.

An experienced public service professional, Brown is frequently listed as one of the top names to know in government in Crain’s Detroit Business. Notably, she has served as deputy chief of staff in the Whitmer Administration, deputy director of the Department of Talent and Economic Development, and deputy director for Southeast Michigan in the Granholm Administration.

Brown also has held leadership positions in multiple state departments including Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Civil Rights and Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy. Her expertise in navigating complex problems and fostering collaborative partnerships has been instrumental in achieving impactful outcomes for the community and government alike.

Brown was appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer to serve an eight-year term on the Oakland University Board of Trustees, starting in August of 2024. She has regularly appeared as a guest speaker on campus, sharing her expertise in classrooms and through large-scale speaking events. She is a proud alumna of Oakland University and holds a bachelor’s degree in communication.