Wyoming Department of Revenue welcomes new Director, Fanning in role
New Director Appointed at Wyoming Department of Revenue
Governor Mark Gordon has appointed Bret Fanning as the new Director of the Wyoming Department of Revenue. Fanning, a Cheyenne native, replaces Brenda Henson who retired earlier this year.
Fanning has been serving as the administrator of the department's Excise Tax Division since 2022. Prior to this, he conducted and reviewed taxpayer audits for the Wyoming Department of Audit's Excise Tax Division from 2011 to 2022.
Governor Gordon expressed confidence in Fanning's transition, citing his experience in the Excise Tax Division as a key factor. Fanning also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Director, and is excited for the continued partnership with all stakeholders going forward.
The Wyoming Department of Revenue is a crucial part of the state's infrastructure, responsible for distributing alcoholic beverages wholesale and enforcing liquor control laws, in addition to administering and collecting mineral and excise taxes, valuing property, and overseeing the Excise Tax, Property Tax, Mineral Tax, and Liquor divisions. The department also includes an Administrative Services division.
Fanning holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Wyoming, and earned his bachelor's degrees from the University of Northern Colorado.
Matt Sachse served in an interim capacity as Director of the Wyoming Department of Revenue since Director Henson's retirement. Governor Gordon thanked Sachse for his service.
Fanning has overseen the statewide administration of taxes including sales, use, lodging, nicotine products, prepaid wireless, and wind generation. He is well-equipped to lead the department in its important work.
[1] Wyoming Governor's Office press release, 2025. [2] Wyoming Department of Revenue press release, 2025. [3] Cheyenne Star-Tribune, 2025.
Fanning's appointment as the new Director of the Wyoming Department of Revenue not only signifies career development for him but also sets the stage for education and self-development, given his Master's degree in Business Administration and Bachelor's degrees. This shift in leadership could potentially influence the department's role in politics, especially in the realm of general news regarding taxation, liquor control, and mineral taxes.
