Governor Jay Inslee announced that Brian Bonlender will serve as Director of the Department of Commerce.
Bonlender served as Inslee’s chief-of-staff and legislative director, running the congressman’s office and acting as his primary advisor on economic issues. He worked on legislation and policy in a range of industries including agriculture, life sciences, information technology, aerospace, maritime and clean energy. Bonlender brings nearly 20 years of public and private experience to his new post, including as a regulatory compliance consultant for industries across the state and as an advisor to a clean tech startup. Most recently, Bonlender served as director of Inslee’s transition team.
“Having worked with Brian over the years, we know him to be a strong advocate for Washington State industries and a good partner for the business community,” said Steve Mullen, president of the Washington Roundtable. “We are pleased to see Governor Inslee appoint a close and capable aide to direct the Department of Commerce. It sends a clear signal that job creation and economic growth will be the administration’s top priority.”
Source: Governor Jay Inslee, Press Release, January 29, 2013.