Farewell to ECOSS Executive Director Kevin Burrell

After 15 years at ECOSS and eight years at the helm, our Executive Director Kevin Burrell is leaving ECOSS to take on a
new adventure as Deputy Director of Seattle’s Office of Economic Development. As Kevin expressed the transition, “After a wonderful and inspired ride in the non-profit sector, I’ve decided to step down from my post at ECOSS and throw myself into public service. I leave with a warm heart, a lifetime of delightful memories, and confidence that the Board and staff will continue to do amazing things.”

The feeling is mutual—all the best, Kevin!

Board Chair Matt Woltman summed up Kevin’s contribution to ECOSS in his letter to ECOSS supporters:

Dear Friends of ECOSS,

It is with mixed emotions that I share the news that, after 15 years of dedicated service, our illustrious Executive Director, Kevin Burrell, is leaving ECOSS to take on a new adventure with the City of Seattle. Kevin’s new position will be Deputy Director at the Office of Economic Development, where he will be working to help support Seattle’s thriving businesses and grow economic opportunities within the Seattle area.

Many of you have worked with Kevin over the years, consulted with him on stormwater or other issues at your business, attended a workshop he organized, or negotiated contract details for one or more of your projects. At ECOSS since 2001, he started as a staff member with a strong geology background conducting outreach to businesses. Over time the work that he spearheaded expanded and so did his role with ECOSS—to Deputy Director under Charlie Cunniff, and eventually to Executive Director eight years ago. As ED he launched new programs and grew the organization’s staff base to 30 full and part time employees that speak 17 languages.

In addition to Kevin’s significant achievements with delivery of programs and growing the organization’s support, Kevin has also contributed the most in terms of putting his heart and soul into building the organization, pursuing the mission of ECOSS, being a catalyst in the community of South Park, and treating others with grace and respect—even under pressure. His diplomatic and public relation skills are legendary and will serve him well in the public sector.

As Board Chair, I have had the pleasure of working with Kevin for over 5 years and have been delighted and inspired by his work, vision and commitment to the organization. We are all very pleased that Kevin will put his talents to work in public service, and wish him well in his new adventures at the City of Seattle.We also want to thank him for his many years of dedication and commitment to ECOSS, and for building bridges with diverse businesses and communities. He leaves a solid foundation of talented staff, dedicated board, and well-established, comprehensive programs at ECOSS to carry on the mission.

Moving forward, the ECOSS Board and staff have started the significant task of finding a new ED for the organization.  We have appointed Elizabeth Loudon as Interim ED until such time that a new ED is selected for ECOSS.  Please direct future communications or questions to Elizabeth at elizabeth@ecoss.org or (206) 767-0432 ext 1010.

Matt Woltman,

Chair, Board of Directors,
ECOSS

We will miss him, but wish him the best of luck in his new endeavor!! As we begin the search for a new ED, ECOSS is in the capable hands of Interim Executive Director Elizabeth Loudon.