FREEPORT – Following a year and a half in the position, Janet Dutson has resigned as executive director of FreeportUSA to become director of marketing and communications at her former employer, Creative Work Systems.

Dutson’s resignation becomes effective on Friday, Feb. 7. Josh Cushing, president of the board at FreeportUSA, said that Kelly Edwards, who has been with the organization for more than four years in various capacities, will become interim executive director.

Dutson, 51, from Portland, said that the change “all happened rather quickly.” Someone from Creative Work Systems, which helps Maine people with disabilities, reached out to her, she said.

“They have a great mission,” Dutson said.

FreeportUSA, established in 1977, is a membership-based group – now with 160 members – that helps to market Freeport as a travel destination. One of its high-profile events, Flavors of Freeport, is scheduled for Feb. 21.

Dutson said she was proud that during her time with the organization, it added a new map and enlarged its guide to Freeport businesses, grew the events calendar and increased media attention to Freeport events.

“I’ve really enjoyed my position at FreeportUSA and met a lot of great people,” she said.

Dutson said she feels good about leaving FreeportUSA in Edwards’ capable hands.

“She’s just excellent,” Dutson said. “She just knows Freeport. She knows all of the people in Freeport. She’s fantastic. She really is a professional person.”

Dutson succeeded Myra Hopkins in the position. Hopkins was executive director from August 2008 to March 2012.

In an email, Cushing said FreeportUSA will miss Dutson.

“Since Janet joined FreeportUSA, she has moved the organization forward by redeveloping and strengthening our marketing efforts, growing our annual events, and streamlining systems and procedures,” Cushing said.

FreeportUSA is in good hands moving forward, Cushing said.

“Kelly has been with the organization for over four years and has filled a variety of positions and roles during her tenure. She’ll be assisted by Emily Marquis as members of the board of directors evaluate a long-term staffing solution.”

Janet Dutson