Failed mayoral candidate Nathan Fletcher is casting his vote for a new career—with tech giant Qualcomm.
In a Facebook posting Thursday morning, Assemblyman Fletcher announced that he will join Qualcomm as senior director of corporate development after his Sacramento term ends Dec. 2.
“I believe in the power of innovation to improve people’s lives,” Fletcher said. “Qualcomm brings innovation to people across the globe. They are a great community partner and provide good paying jobs for San Diegans. I am proud to join their team and look forward to helping advance these endeavors.”
Said Paul Jacobs, chairman and CEO of Qualcomm: “We are thrilled to have Nathan join us. His energy, passion and drive will be a great addition at Qualcomm. Nathan Fletcher has tremendous talent, a great mind for business and shares our vision about the potential for technology and innovation.”
Fletcher—who represents portions of San Diego and Escondido as well as Poway—says he will help develop global strategies for advancing Qualcomm's mission in multiple areas, including wireless health initiatives, mobile education, and the protection of intellectual property.
“Fletcher will also help promote Qualcomm’s many corporate citizenship and philanthropic initiatives including employee volunteerism and other local and international initiatives under the company’s Corporate Foundation and Wireless Reach program,” said his posting. “His position will not involve government relations or lobbying activities.”
Fletcher said: “During my time in public office, I had the opportunity to get to know the culture and the character of Qualcomm. Whether helping female entrepreneurs in Indonesia, assisting disadvantaged communities across America, or creating jobs in San Diego, I have always been impressed with the Qualcomm approach as well as their philosophy and values as an employer.
“This position gives me the opportunity to become a partner in helping advance their vision.”
In addition to his role at Qualcomm, Fletcher says he plans to remain active in the community and will provide more information regarding other future endeavors in the coming months.
He lost the June primary for San Diego mayor, which ultimately went to Rep. Bob Filner. He was third with 24 percent of the vote, trailing Carl DeMaio and Filner.
