Jeff Ham has been named executive director of the Maine Press Association effective Jan. 1, 2012. Ham is returning to the position he held from 2002-2008 and replaces Andrea Nemitz, who recently announced her resignation to pursue other business interests.

Ham is well known to MPA members, and served on the board of directors for about seven years before stepping down in October. He has served on several MPA committees through the years in addition to being executive director.

After his hiring was approved by the board of directors at their meeting on Dec. 15, Ham said he looked forward to helping members meet the challenges facing the newspaper industry and working to strengthen the association.

“I can’t wait to get back at it,” Ham said.

MPA President Mike Dowd praised Nemitz for her efforts and welcomed Ham’s return as executive director.

“Andrea met several challenges head on and worked tirelessly this past year,” Dowd said. “I wish her well in her new endeavors. We are fortunate to have Jeff back in a leadership role at a critical time for our association. I look forward to working with him again.”