Former Congressional aide hired by the CREDC

The new manager of investor relations for the Columbia River Economic Development Council worked three years as the district director for U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell.

Kimberly Pincheira served in a similar capacity for former Congressman Brian Baird.

“She brings a wealth of relationships and experience with local businesses and governments which will be important to our organization,” CREDC Board Chair Bill Dudley said regarding Pincheira.

She succeeds Diane Dempcy, who is moving on to other opportunities in the non-profit sector.

Pincheira, of Vancouver, has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Washington State University and a master’s degree in political science from the University of Oregon. She will assume her new duties on Sept. 3.

Meanwhile a new president recruitment committee has been formed, and CREDC officials hope to have a new president in place by January 2014, if not before.

Lisa Nisenfeld has been nominated by Gov. John Kitzhaber to serve as director of the Oregon Employment Department. The appointment is subject to State Senate approval.

Nisenfeld’s last day at the CREDC is Sept. 25. She was named president in September 2011. Nisenfeld was appointed to the position by a unanimous vote of the board of directors after a four-month national search in which more than 100 applicants sought the position.

The CREDC is a private-public partnership of 140 investors working to advance the economic vitality of Clark County through business growth and innovation. The organization promotes job quality and capital investment.

For more information, call 694-5006 or visit www.credc.org.