Meet Susan Nielsen

Bio

Susan Joseph Nielsen is an economic development expert for the City of Spokane Valley. In this role, she connects with CEOs, executives, and local businesses, recommending strategies to foster economic development in desired areas, assisting businesses with growth strategies, and evaluating business and community opportunities.

She also knows what it's like to run a business. She is president of Gabe’s Gourmet Foods Spices LLC, a third-generation, family-owned business founded in 1968 by her parents. Gabe's is a retail and e-commerce store with customers throughout the country. Susan previously owned a consultancy business, Strategic Niche LLC. She's lent her expertise to the energy, technology, education, government, agriculture, natural resources, nonprofit, and healthcare sectors.

Throughout her career, Susan has focused on community philanthropy and volunteerism. Organizations benefitting from her active service include American Red Cross Inland Northwest, Spokane Public Schools, Leadership Spokane, and the College Success Foundation. Susan is also a Fairchild Air Force Base Honorary Commander assigned to the 22nd Air Task Force through 2027. This volunteer civilian role is an extension of the Air Force, the base, and the wing’s mission into our community.

A graduate of Washington State University, she received a master’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from Eastern Washington University. Susan is a certified through the National Center for Economic Gardening and credentialed through the Public Relations Society of America.

Susan enjoys all aspects of living in the Pacific Northwest. She and her husband, Scott, have two adult sons. The entire family has been active in the credit union movement for several years. They value the many ways Numerica supports the communities it serves.

Before serving on the Numerica Board of Directors, Susan was a member of the Audit Committee.