Tech Industry Strategic Advisor

The Office of Economic Development's purpose is to shape the future of Seattle’s economy to make it more equitable, prosperous, and competitive. We lead projects and make investments that expand access to opportunity, reduce the racial wealth gap, and foster innovation and sustainable growth. The Key Industries & Workforce Development (KIWD) team drives this work by supporting industries that generate living-wage careers, spark innovation, and build shared prosperity.

We develop strategies and partnerships across sectors, including technology, maritime, manufacturing, film, life sciences, aerospace, nightlife, and clean energy tech.

We’re seeking an equity-driven, innovative Tech Industry Strategic Advisor to lead strategies that strengthen Seattle’s technology sector economy. You’ll connect stakeholders, advance initiatives that promote inclusive growth, and align workforce development with industry needs. Seattle is at a pivotal moment - offering a rare chance to shape the tech sector and drive equitable growth. If you’re ready to lead, join us to help define the future of one of the nation’s most dynamic tech hubs!

• Sector Strategy & Policy:
  Lead strategies to grow Seattle’s tech sector ecosystem. Provide insights, align talent development, and deliver data-driven reports.
• Industry Engagement:
  Build relationships with startups, established firms, investors, and hubs. Represent OED at events that promote inclusive innovation.
• Cross‑Sector Support:
  Advise on tech trends that strengthen industries like maritime, manufacturing, and life sciences. Support Seattle’s AI strategy.
• Citywide
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Align tech strategies with broader economic goals and identify partnership opportunities internally and externally.

Please note this job ad is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

We know no applicant will have every skill or experience listed - and that’s okay! We believe a strong economy is built by and for the community it serves, which means actively including those historically excluded from wealth-building opportunities. We value transferable skills, diverse perspectives, nontraditional career paths, lived experience, and a demonstrated commitment to racial equity and social justice. If you bring a combination of the qualifications below and are excited to make a positive impact, we want to hear from you!

• Leveraging your experience in industry, economic development, policy-making, and/or program design to lead equitable and inclusive strategies that strengthen Seattle’s technology sector and foster inclusive growth.
• Building strong partnerships across tech and innovation ecosystems to promote collaboration and shared prosperity.
• Representing OED in high-impact initiatives and serving as a trusted advisor to leadership.
• Navigating ambiguity and driving change with professionalism and cultural humility.
• Delivering results aligned with the City’s values of equity, inclusion, and community engagement.

• Strategic Leadership: Articulate vision, turn complex info into plans, and lead multiple projects.
• Policy & Program Expertise: Experience in industry, economic development, policy evaluation, and program implementation.
• Collaboration & Communication: Build relationships across diverse audiences; strong written and verbal skills.
• Project Management: Manage budgets, deadlines, and cross‑team coordination.
• Analytical & Industry Insight: Assess trends, identify opportunities, and integrate equity into strategies.
• Tech &…