LANSING — James Epolito will replace Don Jakeway as president and CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corp. on Sept. 1.
Jakeway will stay on with the MEDC to head its international economic development efforts, as well as some special projects, according to the MEDC.
Epolito recently resigned as chief executive of Lansing-based Accident Fund Insurance Co. of America. His contract with the MEDC has yet to be approved.
Matthew Cullen, chairman of the MEDC’s executive committee, said the leadership change is not being made because of dissatisfaction with Jakeway’s performance or because of Michigan’s slow recovering economy.
“We chose to do it because we had the opportunity to get Jim Epolito,” said Cullen, an executive with General Motors Corp. “We think he’s a guy who brings great value to the organization. Any time you can make a team better, you make it better.”