October 22, 2025
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Shawn Uhlman, Prosper Portland

Prosper Portland is pleased to announce that Andrew Fitzpatrick has been selected as to serve as the agency’s permanent Director of Economic Development, following a competitive application and hiring process. As Director of Economic Development, Fitzpatrick will continue to lead the agency’s work to foster equitable economic growth for the City of Portland. Fitzpatrick has served as interim Director of Economic Development since September 2024.

“Andrew’s proven track record and extensive experience make him extremely qualified for this role,” said Executive Director Cornell Wesley. “I appreciate his steady leadership as interim economic development director, and I am excited to see him continue in a permanent capacity.”

Fitzpatrick has 20 years of experience advancing public policy and implementing programs that drive inclusive economic growth. During his tenure at Prosper Portland, he has overseen the creation of the new Office of Small Business, the expansion of support for events and film production, and the retention and recruitment of key traded-sector employers.

Prior to joining Prosper Portland, Fitzpatrick served as the Director of Economic Development for Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler, a Legislative Director in the U.S. House of Representatives, and an advisor for several U.S. Agency for International Development-funded economic development programs. He holds a Master of Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School, and a B.A. in Government from Colby College in Maine.

“I am honored and motivated by the opportunity to accelerate the positive momentum that my team is driving to grow jobs and investment in our city,” said Andrew Fitzpatrick. “I am committed to leading bold action that will effectively grow our economy and enable all Portlanders to participate in, and benefit from, that growth.”