Daniel Diez, a seasoned tech and communications executive, has joined Agility Robotics as its Chief Strategy Officer. Agility Robotics, based in Corvallis, Oregon, is known for its Digit bipedal humanoid warehouse robot and recently raised a $150 million funding round led by DCVC and Playground Global with participation from Amazon’s Industrial Innovation Fund. Amazon has been testing Digit in its warehouse operations since last year. Diez previously worked at augmented reality company Magic Leap in various roles, including Chief Marketing Officer and advisor to the CEO, as well as at KCD Brands, R/GA, and Interbrand.
Peggy Johnson, the former Microsoft executive who recently stepped down as CEO of Magic Leap, has been appointed as the new CEO of Agility Robotics. The company announced plans for a new manufacturing plant in Salem, Oregon, where it aims to produce over 10,000 robots annually. This move signifies Agility’s commitment to expanding its operations and accelerating the production of its innovative robotics technology. The addition of both Diez and Johnson to the leadership team reflects the company’s strategic approach to growth and innovation within the industry.
In other recent personnel moves in the Pacific Northwest tech industry, Seattle startup Zuper appointed Seth Nesbitt as its Chief Marketing Officer. Nesbitt has extensive experience in marketing leadership roles at companies such as Icertis, Ecova, Parallels, and Amdocs. Zuper, a provider of field operations software for various industries, raised $32 million and received recognition as a Next Tech Titan at the GeekWire Awards. Additionally, Corinne (Pascale) Stroum was promoted to Head of Emerging Technologies at SCAN, a nonprofit focused on senior care, after working at Advata, Caradigm, and Microsoft.
At Seattle-based telecom startup Teal Communications, Robb Monkman was promoted to Chief Marketing Officer in 2022. Prior to his role at Teal Communications, Monkman was the founder of React Mobile. These key personnel moves across the region demonstrate a trend of experienced professionals taking on leadership roles in growing companies within the tech industry. As companies continue to innovate and expand their operations, the strategic appointment of leaders with diverse backgrounds and expertise is essential for driving growth and creating a competitive advantage in the market.
The Pacific Northwest tech industry is experiencing a wave of talent acquisitions and promotions, as companies aim to strengthen their leadership teams and drive innovation in various sectors. With the appointment of executives like Daniel Diez, Peggy Johnson, Seth Nesbitt, Corinne Stroum, and Robb Monkman, companies are positioning themselves for future growth and success. These strategic hires bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their respective organizations, reinforcing the region’s reputation as a hub for technology innovation and leadership in the global market.
Overall, the recent personnel moves in the Pacific Northwest tech industry highlight the region’s continued growth and development as a key player in the global technology landscape. With companies like Agility Robotics, Zuper, and Teal Communications attracting top talent and expanding their operations, the region is poised to remain at the forefront of innovation and technological advancement. By investing in experienced leaders and fostering a culture of innovation, these companies are well-positioned to drive growth, create new opportunities, and make a significant impact in the tech industry both locally and globally.
