[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the upcoming retirement of Janet Johnson, the first woman appointed as commissioner of the Bureau of Mediation Services (BMS). Johnson has served the state in various capacities state since 1976. Governor Walz thanked Johnson for her lifetime of service to Minnesota and announced an open, competitive hiring process.

“During her tenure as commissioner and her entire career in state government, Janet Johnson has embodied the important Minnesota values of hard work and integrity. The next Commissioner of the Bureau of Mediation Services will build on the foundation of Commissioner Johnson’s work by promoting a strong economy for all Minnesotans by facilitating successful labor-management relations,” said Governor Walz. “I am grateful for the dedicated public servants who will step forward and apply to lead the Bureau of Mediation Services.”

“Minnesota’s employers, labor unions, and union members have been well-served by Commissioner Johnson, and we are grateful to her for her strong leadership. She has been a valuable member of the Cabinet, and her kindness is noteworthy,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “The Bureau of Mediation Services is driven to build partnerships and resolve conflict, and we will look for a public servant who is committed to that mission.”

“I would like to say thank you to Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan for giving me this opportunity to serve as the Commissioner of the Bureau of Mediation Services. I am particularly proud to have been the first female to serve as commissioner of the Bureau of Mediation Services,” said Commissioner Johnson. “ It has been a pleasure to be part of this One Minnesota Administration.”

Commissioner Johnson was appointed by Governor Walz in January of 2019. Commissioner Johnson’s last official day is December 21, 2021. Mike Stockstead will serve as Temporary Commissioner until the Governor appoints a new Commissioner. The BMS provides neutral mediation of collective bargaining disputes, assisting labor and management representatives in collaboratively addressing problems and developing plans for improving the relationships and operation of the organization. The mission of the BMS is to promote stable and constructive labor-management relations and to facilitate the use of alternative dispute resolution and collaborative processes.

An individual wishing to apply should submit a cover letter and resume to gov.appointments@state.mn.us . Application materials are due by November 10, 2021 and should be addressed to Governor Tim Walz. Applicants can contact gov.appointments@state.mn.us or (651) 201-3400 with questions about the application process or to request reasonable accommodations.

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