Governor Hires New Economic Development Director

By Nigel Jaquiss

After a long search, Gov. Kate Brown has hired a new executive director for the state's economic development agency, Business Oregon, WW has learned.

The top job has been open since former director Sean Robbins resigned from this $160,000-a-year post in July. The new boss is Chris Harder, currently economic development director at the Portland Development Commission.

Harder, 42, joined the PDC in 2010. His departure compounds a difficult week for the city agency. On Monday, PDC executive director Patrick Quinton announced he's stepping down after five years leading the commission.

Willamette Week

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Business OregonChris HarderKate Brown

Nigel Jaquiss

Nigel Jaquiss

Reporter Nigel Jaquiss joined the Oregon Journalism project in 2025 after 27 years at Willamette Week.

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