Tech Alliance Names Executive Director

The New Hampshire Tech Alliance (NHTA) board of directors has hired Julie Demers as the organization’s first full-time executive director. According to a statement from the organization, Demers has experience in both non-profits and event management, and is familiar with the state's business and tech community. Most recently, she served as the technology sector advisor for the Sector Partnership Initiative (SPI) through the NH Tech Alliance.

“We are excited to have someone with Julie’s business acumen, professional experience and relationships, and passion for the state of New Hampshire,” says Toral Cowieson, board chair of the Tech Alliance. “She will be an excellent advocate for our members, the tech ecosystem and our state. Julie is the right leader to build on the momentum the Alliance has established over the past several years.”

The Tech Alliance is currently working to build an internal team that will be led by Demers.

“The Alliance board, volunteers and staff are incredibly engaged and passionate about the future of this organization. I am so fortunate to have the opportunity to work closely with this group to continue to deliver robust programming and enhance opportunities for this state’s vibrant technology and entrepreneurial landscape,” Demers said. “The growth and diversification of the Alliance’s membership really mirrors NH’s economy, especially in the tech sector. With this growth comes enormous opportunity. The board and volunteers have done a tremendous job of repositioning this organization and defining its core value pillars to best serve its members. I’m humbled and honored to be able to step into this position at such an exciting time.”

She will officially start in September. Cookson Communications will continue to support the Alliance initiatives and programming until then. Matt Cookson was the NH High Tech Council's executive director from 2010 until recently and he will move to an advisory role when Demers comes on board.

“Julie will be a great fit ... Her work with the Sector Partner Initiative has proven her ability to successfully interact with industry experts to understand needs, as well as connect with state and local resources to align programs and grants with those needs," said David Lemaire, tech sector champion for SPI and software development director at Oracle. “Julie is always thinking of ways to grow programs and get traction on new projects through marketing and personal outreach.”