COLUMBUS — Today, Innovation Ohio and Innovation Ohio Education Fund announced that Michael McGovern will become the organizations’ next President and CEO, beginning in January 2026. This marks an exciting new chapter for IO and IOEF as they expand their impact and sharpen their focus on building progressive power to deliver policy solutions that improve everyday life for Ohioans.

McGovern brings more than 15 years of experience in strategic communications, research, and progressive advocacy. He previously served as Innovation Ohio’s Communications Director and most recently was the Senior Director of Messaging and Research at ProgressNow, supporting 28 state-based progressive organizations across the country. A full bio is below.

“I’m thrilled to return to IO and lead this organization into its next phase,” said McGovern. “Ohioans are struggling financially, stretched thin, and hungry for change. Innovation Ohio is poised to lead the charge on building progressive power and advocating for bold, practical policy changes. We’re ready to hit the ground running in 2026 and create real opportunities across the state.”

Current President and CEO, Desiree Tims, who has led the organization since 2021, will step down at the end of the year and remain with the organization as Senior Advisor, ensuring continuity and supporting Innovation Ohio’s long-term vision through the transition.

“Leading Innovation Ohio has been the privilege of a lifetime,” said Tims. “This organization is stronger than ever, and Michael’s leadership, experience, and deep understanding of Ohio’s policy landscape will position IO for an even greater impact.”

Innovation Ohio and Innovation Ohio Education Fund’s Boards of Directors expressed confidence in Michael's leadership and enthusiasm for the organization’s future, noting that the transition reflects both continuity and ambition as Innovation Ohio builds toward its next chapter of growth and leadership in Ohio.

"Desiree has done great work for this organization and we deeply value her leadership and commitment to improving our state,” said Innovation Ohio board member and former First Lady of Ohio Frances Strickland. “Now, we are excited for Michael to return to Innovation Ohio and lead it into a new chapter."

###

About Innovation Ohio

Innovation Ohio is a diverse nonprofit organization working to improve everyday life for Ohio workers and families, create opportunities for all Ohioans, and strengthen Ohio communities from the bottom up. Through polling, messaging campaigns, and coalition building, they are a catalyst for progressive policy and grassroots activity.

About Michael McGovern

Michael has spent the last 15 years working in communications and research supporting progressive causes and candidates in Ohio and across the country. He was most recently the Senior Director of Messaging and Research at ProgressNow, where he supported 28 state progressive advocacy organizations (including IO!) with their content creation, paid media, and message testing. In addition to previously serving as IO’s Communications Director, Michael was also a Senior Advisor to Nan Whaley’s gubernatorial campaign and has had communications roles on several statewide ballot initiatives and with the Ohio Organizing Collaborative. He lives in Dayton with his wife, daughter, and a varying number of cats.