Brittany Bakken named Suquamish Tribe Deputy Executive Director
Suquamish tribal member Brittany Bakken has been named Suquamish Tribe’s new Deputy Executive Director, bringing more than two decades of experience in tribal government and business operations to one of the tribe’s most senior administrative positions.
Bakken officially began her new role Oct. 19, now working alongside Executive Director Catherine Edwards at the Tribal Administration Center.
“She will work closely with me and our leadership team,” Edwards wrote in an announcement to tribal government staff, “to support coordination across departments, strengthen operations and advance our goals for effective, accountable, and responsive tribal government.”
The appointment marks the filling of a position that has been vacant since former Deputy Executive Director Morrie Black Eagle retired in 2018.
Building on experience
Bakken began her career with Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort and Port Madison Enterprises, where she spent much of her professional life working in hospitality and management.
Her experience includes leading operations at Kiana Lodge, where she soon became known for her hands-on approach to leadership, working alongside employees in everything from event planning and customer service to setting up weddings and maintaining the property.
“I’ve always believed you should never ask someone to do something you wouldn’t be willing to do yourself,” Bakken said. “I think it’s important to be visible, to understand what people are doing, and to help wherever you’re needed.”
Bakken said she also strives to be the kind of person that brings optimism to those with whom she works.
“With the world we live in today, it can be so easy to hyper focus on negativity and get sucked down toxic rabbit holes,” she said. ”I’m not an overtly bubbly cheerleader by any means, but I do try and make positive change in the way I carry myself and interact with others.”
Most recently, Bakken served for more than two and a half years as director of the tribe’s 477 Yusawiac Workforce Program, which helps tribal members pursue education, employment, and greater economic self-sufficiency.
During her tenure, the program secured multiple state grants, expanded workshops and coaching services, while strengthening partnerships with tribal departments, employers, and community organizations.
In a note to Human Services staff announcing Bakken’s transition to her new role, Director Nehreen Ayub praised her leadership and the program’s accomplishments.
“Her ability to see possibilities where others see obstacles, combined with her talent for coaching and motivating others, has been instrumental in strengthening her team and advancing the 477 Program,” Ayub wrote.
Bakken said one of her proudest accomplishments has been watching her team help tribal members overcome challenges and work toward their goals.
“I’ve really enjoyed being part of things that help change people’s lives and make a difference,” she said.
A collaborative approach
In her new role as Deputy Executive Director, Bakken hopes to build on those experiences, bringing a practical, collaborative approach to supporting tribal staff.
She said her work with the 477 Program gave her a greater appreciation for how different tribal services intersect, and how coordination across departments can make a meaningful difference for the people they serve.
“Sometimes we’re so focused on our own responsibilities that we don’t always see how our work affects other departments,” Bakken said. “I think there are a lot of opportunities to strengthen those relationships, share information, and make things work better for everyone.”
She also believes that progress often comes through a series of small, thoughtful improvements rather than big, sweeping changes.
“I think it’s important to focus on the little things we can improve that make a positive impact,” she said. “Over time, those little changes can make a big difference.”
Bakken said she looks forward to working closely with Edwards and the government’s leadership team while getting to know more of the staff, programs, and services she will help support.
One of her first stops after being appointed was a visit to the Suquamish Elders Council, where she introduced herself in her new role and answered questions about her responsibilities.
Bakken counts her grandmother Dolores Mills and auntie Betty Pasco among the Elders who have shaped her understanding of community and service. She says maintaining those connections is an important part of her approach.
Outside of work, Bakken serves on the Suquamish Higher Education Board and the Suquamish Foundation and is involved with Friends of the Suquamish Museum. She also enjoys cheering on her daughter at soccer games and spending time with her family, including her newborn baby.
As she settles into her new responsibilities, Bakken said she hopes to bring the same combination of practical problem-solving, open communication, and support for others that has guided her throughout her career.
“I want people to know that I’m approachable, that I value their ideas, and that I’m someone who likes to take action,” she said. “If there’s something we can do to make things better, I want to help make it happen.”
