Paul Simonds is the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Orange County Business Council (OCBC). With a focus on expanding economic development opportunities throughout Orange County and advancing the interests of OCBC’s investors, Simonds oversees the day-to-day operations of the Council.

Prior to joining OCBC, Paul was the Senior Vice President at the public affairs firm, Curt Pringle and Associates, where he represented a broad cross section of business sectors, including public utilities, telecommunications providers, developers, professional sports teams and public transportation agencies. Before that, Paul worked for Southern California Gas Company, Cerrell Associates and Western Growers Association.

Paul brings more than 20 years of experience to OCBC, including more than a decade working with policy makers and administrators in Orange County. Through the years, he has served on numerous boards, including the Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce, South Orange County Economic Coalition, Capistrano Unified School District Foundation, Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, Kinetic Academy, Sustain OC, Sempra Employees Political Action Committee, Economic Coalition Political Action Committee and Irvine Chamber Political Action Committee.

Paul, a Navy veteran, earned his master’s degree in Public Administration from Brandman University and his bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies with an emphasis in Media Relations from Chapman University.