CentreBC tech CEO running in Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows riding

Maple Ridge resident Jordan Simmons has decided to run for office after a career working with government through his technology business. He is CentreBC’s candidate in the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows riding for the provincial election on Oct. 24. Simmons is co-founder and CEO of Nominee, which he describes as a technology platform that provides professional development in governance, public policy and political leadership for governments, political organizations and aspiring leaders.

Simmons has worked as a communications adviser to MLAs and ministries and as a senior adviser to several B.C. cabinet ministers, including the minister of community, sport and cultural development and the minister of state for seniors. He said those experiences gave him a passion for politics and an appreciation of why it matters. He also said his experience as a technology entrepreneur gave him an understanding of the private sector and the challenges small businesses face, which he could bring to public office.

He chose to run with CentreBC, led by Elenore Sturko, saying, “I’m so proud to be part of this team.” Simmons said the B.C. NDP’s record over the past 10 years shows that the status quo is not working. He added that Eby’s government has not focused on the economy or attracting investment. He is also wary of the B.C. Conservatives and said he is “really concerned” about their social messaging. CentreBC plans to release its complete platform soon. Simmons said the party stands for accountability and a pragmatic, evidence-based approach.

Simmons considers the election, called two years early, unnecessary and costly. He said the millions spent on it could instead have gone to programs and increased services.

His CentreBC biography says he has spent more than a decade as a leader in the technology sector, working with elected officials, public institutions and non-governmental organizations around the world to promote and defend democracy and civic engagement. His work has included organizations ranging from multinational corporations to early-stage startups. As a volunteer, he has served on the boards of Cuso International, the Immigrant Services Society of BC and the Canadian Black Policy Network. He says he is passionate about community building, social inclusion and economic development, and committed to empowering marginalized and underserved communities.

Simmons has also served on the advisory board of Movement, a non-profit that advocates for better public transit across Metro Vancouver. He was a member of the City of Vancouver’s Independent Election Task Force, which explored ways to increase voter turnout and engagement in municipal elections.

Simmons has lived in west Maple Ridge for the past seven years. He believes Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows need better transportation and infrastructure, as well as schools that keep pace with growth. He said he would promote reliable access to quality health care and a compassionate, effective response to public safety, homelessness and addiction that keeps streets safe while supporting the most vulnerable. “It’s a community I love, and see so much potential for,” he said.