Tampa Bay Wave appoints COO

Tampa Bay Wave has appointed Jay Powers as chief operating officer.

In this newly created position, Powers will spearhead the execution of strategic initiatives, including the HealthTech|X Accelerator and LatinTech Accelerator, both funded through recent federal grants. He will also oversee all operational, functional and administrative aspects of the organization, according to a statement.

“I am delighted to extend a warm welcome to Jay as he joins the Tampa Bay Wave team,” said Linda Olson, chief executive officer and founder of Tampa Bay Wave, in the statement. “His extensive military background and proven track record in leadership development and problem-solving will prove invaluable as we continue to expand and empower innovative startups within our ecosystem.”

Powers has more than three decades of experience in the military, including 22 years as a distinguished Special Forces Green Beret leading troops in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria.

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