Nicole A. Velasco

Executive Director of the Office of Economic Development, City & County of Honolulu

Nicole A. Velasco serves as the Executive Director of the Office of Economic Development. On behalf of the City & County of Honolulu, she is responsible for cultivating tourism and hospitality, agriculture, film, and other industries; advancing small businesses; strengthening relationships with state, military, federal, and international partners; and coordinating cultural and community festivals and special events. Velasco is the youngest appointed Cabinet member of the Caldwell Administration.

Prior to assuming her new role, Velasco served as the Executive Secretary of the Neighborhood Commission Office. Velasco has also worked as an analyst for both the Hawaii State Office of the Auditor and the Finance Committee of the Hawaii State House of Representatives. Previously, she served as a Government Affairs Advisor at Ashford & Wriston, LLP, representing a variety of clients with legislative concerns in the State of Hawaii.