Renton's economic development division coordinates public and private improvements contained in the downtown redevelopment plan and the expansion of the neighborhood redevelopment plans; initiates proactive lobbying and contact with state and federal delegations regarding legislative issues; and is responsible for implementing the business recruitment campaign.

In that regard, Pietsch inherits several economic development initiatives, including the Highlands redevelopment plan, Port Quendall and several Downtown development and redevelopment projects. "It's a very exciting position and a new direction for my career," Pietsch tells GlobeSt.com. "Renton has made soem exciting changes and to be a part of that will be rewarding."

Pietsch left Wright Runhstad a few months ago, shortly after the company's 125-person property management staff was hired away by Equity Office Properties Trust. Pietsch says his leaving was associated with the economic slowdown.