Gov. Jay Inslee announced today that Pat Kohler, director of the Department of Licensing, is stepping down. Her last day will be June 30.
In her resignation letter to Inslee, Kohler said that the tragic loss of her brother earlier this year is prompting her to re-evaluate her priorities and that she is currently exploring future opportunities.
Kohler has served as DOL director since June 2013. Under her leadership, the department has modernized business processes, implemented several new technology modernization systems on time and under budget, reduced customer wait times, and significantly increased employee satisfaction.
”I thank Pat for her 35 years of service to the people of Washington state. She is a strong leader and administrator and has been instrumental in DOL’s efforts to improve and modernize the ways the agency serves its customers,” Inslee said. ”It is important our next director continues to support DOL staff in continuing their good work to improve customer service, and is fully committed to our ongoing efforts to protect the personal information and data of every Washingtonian.”
Prior to coming to DOL, Kohler served 10 years as executive director of the Washington State Liquor Control Board (prior to the inclusion of cannabis in its mission and name). Her career in state government also includes experience with the Washington State Department of General Administration and the Washington State Auditor’s Office.
A search for Kohler’s replacement will begin immediately.