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Lydia Downing
Executive Vice President at New York City Economic Development Corporation
Lydia Downing is a seasoned communications professional and strategist with over 15 years of experience across various sectors, including public, private, and non-profit. She currently serves as the Director of External Affairs at Rise Light & Power, a position she has held since March 2024. In this role, she is focused on projects aimed at decarbonizing New York City's largest power plant.1
Previously, Downing worked as a Portfolio Manager for a private family office and held significant roles in the New York City government, including Special Assistant to the Deputy Commissioner at the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection. Her career began with a fellowship at the Commission on Human Rights in New York City after moving there in 2008, where she focused on community healing in violence-torn areas.1
Downing is recognized for her ability to build relationships and design effective communication strategies that advance high-impact projects. Her work has included managing public awareness campaigns and developing policy recommendations.1
