Multnomah County, Ore. (Dec. 12, 2024) — Multnomah County Commissioner Julia Brim-Edwards announced today that Bryan Hockaday will join her team as chief of staff, starting January 2025. Hockaday brings a wealth and diversity of policy experience to this leadership role, as well as a proven commitment to equity and community engagement.
"Bryan’s extensive public service experience, coupled with his collaborative and strategic problem-solving approach, make him an excellent fit for our team during this critical time for Multnomah County," said Commissioner Brim-Edwards. "I’m excited to welcome him on board as we continue to work to take urgent action against the biggest challenges facing our community.
Hockaday, a University of Portland graduate, brings to this role experience at the city, county and state level and the private sector. He began his public service as a policy advisor in Portland City Hall and as outreach and policy advisor for a Multnomah County Commissioner. He has also served as a press secretary in the Oregon Governor’s Office, policy advisor to the Mayor of Seattle, and chief of staff to an Oregon Legislator. Additionally, Hockaday previously led a multi-state portfolio as a public policy manager for Lyft in the Pacific Northwest.
More recently, he worked on the Public and Government Affairs team for Clackamas County and as a public affairs specialist for the Oregon Department of Energy. Over his career, he has built strong relationships with local leaders, community advocates, and policymakers across the region, and he looks forward to returning to Multnomah County.
Hockaday is replacing Eric Zimmerman as Brim-Edwards’ chief of staff. Zimmerman was recently elected to a position on the new Portland City Council.
In his new role, Hockaday will focus on advancing Commissioner Brim-Edwards’ priorities, including reducing homelessness and unsanctioned camping through increasing shelter and pathways to housing; expanding addiction and behavioral health related services, including opening a 24/7 Drop Off Sobering Center; deepening effective working relationships with the new Portland City Council and the new County Commission; advocating for safer neighborhoods with targeted investments in public safety; and improving transparency and accountability in Multnomah County.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Hockaday is an avid runner and craft enthusiast. He resides in the Buckman neighborhood with his partner, Michael, and Judy the Wonder Dog.
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