January 15, 2026 6:50 a.m. 

On Wednesday, Governor Tina Kotek announced that former Republican State Senator Tim Knopp will serve as the Governor’s new Chief Prosperity Officer.

A release said Knopp is charged with spearheading the work in her office to increase the state’s gross domestic product, create family-wage jobs, and grow Oregon businesses consistent with the goals outlined in the Governor’s Prosperity Roadmap.

Kotek said, “To be successful, this role demands a unique set of skills – an entrepreneurial spirit, a systems thinker, and equal parts pragmatism and persistence”. Kotek said, “Tim is going to be a great part of my team, and I am grateful that he has agreed to step up and serve Oregonians”.

Knopp said, “When the Governor calls on you to drive prosperity for Oregonians across the state, grow the economy and support Oregon businesses, the answer is yes”.

Last week, Governor Kotek announced the members of her Prosperity Council, co-chaired by Ampere founder Renee James and Port of Portland Executive Director Chris Robinhold. The council will hold its first meeting later this month.

Knopp, a native Oregonian and central Oregon resident of more than four decades, brings many years of experience in public service, small business leadership and community engagement in his work supporting Oregon’s economy and communities. He will be leaving his current positions as executive vice president of the Central Oregon Builders Association, and executive director of Building Partners for Affordable Housing.

Knopp served three terms in the Oregon House of Representatives from 1999 to 2005, including as House Majority Leader. He later served in the Oregon Senate from 2013 to 2025, including as Senate Minority Leader.

Knopp will assume his role as Chief Prosperity Officer next week.