I am writing to let you know that today I am creating an executive-level position, Chief Engagement Officer, and adding a talented new team member to the SCC, Jessica Wilson. In this role, Jessica is responsible for creating and implementing strategies to enhance engagement among key audiences, including employees, conservation districts, and the broader conservation community.
This role leverages strong communication, strategic, and relationship-building skills to break down silos, build trust, and foster a shared vision across the organization and its external partners. We will also build additional communications capacity.
Background
Jessica has been helping governments in Washington think strategically about their communications while developing operational efficiency for over a decade. At the Washington State Auditor’s Office, she worked for the Center for Government Innovation, helping small local governments better understand how to operate with transparency and accountability.
At the Washington Public Ports Association, she led communications, development, and operational strategy during the pandemic. Most recently, she served as the Public Information Officer at Tacoma Public Utilities, one of the largest municipal utilities in the United States, steering the organization’s communication strategy through complex challenges. As a contractor, she has provided facilitation services to many governments across Washington to create winning strategies to improve operations for the public good.
She holds a Master’s of Business Administration and a Master’s of Humanities, and is a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt. Growing up in rural Northern Illinois, she volunteered with her county conservation district as a child. She participated in many volunteer efforts to restore native tall grass prairie and improve the health of the local river. She currently resides in Lacey with her family.
Please join us in welcoming Jessica to the SCC team!
-James Thompson, SCC Executive Director
