Niels Thorsen (he/him) joined the City of Oakland Public Ethics Commission as an Ethics Analyst - Digital Engagement & Communications Specialist in 2025, supporting the Commission's education, engagement, and public financing programs, including Democracy Dollars. His work emphasizes user-centered design, accessibility, and transparent communication across complex regulatory and civic systems.
Prior to joining the Commission, Mr. Thorsen worked as a Senior Product Designer with OpenOakland, where he led the design of civic technology projects and community data tools. He brings a background in art and visual design, along with experience in community-centered research and cross-functional collaboration. Mr. Thorsen holds a B.A. in Studio Art with a minor in Film Studies from the University of Vermont.
Title: Ethics Analyst - Digital Engagement & Communications Specialist
Department: Public Ethics Commission
Email Address: NThorsen@oaklandca.gov