CHICAGO (WGN) — The self-described “face of Illinois tourism” was financially benefiting from efforts to market the state, according to findings from Illinois’ executive inspector general.

Daniel Thomas made frequent appearances in the media promoting Illinois through his work as deputy director of the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, but the inspector general found he was still profiting from his former company that was hired to help with the marketing effort.  

“Mr. Thomas received over $136,000in payments from TimeZoneOne after he began working at DCEO,” the inspector general determined.   

At one point, Thomas was vigorously negotiating his own payment from his former firm, TimeZoneOne, while overseeing the company’s contracts with the state, “raising serious questions regarding his ability to be independent and objective in his dealings,” the inspector general concluded. 

The inspector general said Thomas increased the firm’s production of marketing videos and marketing materials under the “Illinois Made” campaign during his tenure with the state.  He also traveled to Europe, Mexico and the Rose Bowl in California as part of his work with the Illinois Tourism Office.

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker’s administration said Thomas was terminated immediately following receipt of the results of the investigation. 

“The department takes these matters seriously, and DCEO responded swiftly and decisively upon learning of the misconduct,” a DCEO spokesperson told WGN Investigates. “DCEO has also taken action to address the issues identified, including strengthening internal oversight and accountability measures as it relates to contract management, employee travel, and gift ban compliance.” 

TimeZoneOne and another firm’s contracts expire in June.

A spokesperson for TimeZoneOne did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The firm’s employees are listed as direct contacts on the state’s EnjoyIllinois.com website.

Investigators also determined Thomas violated the state’s gift ban and ethics policies by accepting free or discounted travel, meals and wine. It includes business and first class airfare, discounted hotel rooms and travel for a relative.

The department’s chief of staff told investigators she did not have any concerns about Mr. Thomas’ ability to be objective in overseeing his former company,” according to the report.  

The inspector general concluded DCEO staff engaged in mismanagement by failing to take appropriate action to ensure that Thomas did not have a conflict of interest or appearance of a conflict.