The Maine Heritage Policy Center has named a new CEO.

Matthew Gagnon, a native of Hampden, has spent the last three years as the director of digital strategy at the Republican Governors Association. Gagnon has been involved in Maine and national politics for more than a decade, and was recently recognized by Campaigns & Elections Magazine as one of the 10 best communicators of either party in politics, the MHPC said in a statement announcing his hire. He will assume his duties Sept. 1.

The position had been vacant since April, when former CEO J. Scott Moody announced his departure from the group for a job at Virginia-based State Budget Solutions, another conservative policy group.

“We are thrilled that Matt will be returning to Maine to lead Maine Heritage forward into a new, exciting direction,” said MHPC Chairman Peter V. Anania.

“He has an uncanny understanding of Maine and deep experience in activism, policy, and politics. He will provide excellent leadership for both our organization, and advocates for growth, opportunity and freedom across Maine.”