Susan Joseph Nielsen, M.S., EGc, APR is the Economic Development Specialist for the city. Susan works collaboratively to attract new businesses to Spokane Valley while helping existing businesses grow and expand. She connects businesses of all sizes to resources provided by the city and other partners, leads economic development activities and develops strategies for long-term economic growth and vitality within the city.
Susan is an innovator in her entrepreneurial leadership experience having worked with large, small and start-up companies. In addition to leading many programs and initiatives during her career, she is an owner in her family's 55-year-strong, third-generation business, which provides a valuable perspective for her work with other small business owners.
Susan holds a bachelor's in Communications from Washington State University and a master's in Interdisciplinary Studies from Eastern Washington University. She serves on the board of directors for Numerica Credit Union and serves on numerous local, regional and state committees and is an active volunteer. Susan is a certified CEO Roundtable Facilitator and serves as a small business mentor. She was selected as one of 10 Spokane and Coeur d'Alene Women in Business Leadership Award recipients in 2022.
Susan's hobbies include writing, boating, traveling, biking, walking, reading, making culinary recipes using her family company's spices and RVing. Susan is always up for a great adventure!