Sean Lawrence

Sean Lawrence

MBA

Tribal Program Manager

Main office location Seattle, WA

Year started in industry 2015

Year started at Säzän 2024

Project types/specialty

Tribal Projects with a focus on clean energy solutions such as Microgrid feasibility studies, consulting on energy resilience and infrastructure development and community driven sustainability initiatives.

Sean is the Tribal Program Manager at Säzän Group, where he leverages over a decade of expertise in Tribal program administration and management. He holds an MBA in Finance from Arizona State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Tribal Governance and Business Management from Northwest Indian College. In his current role, Sean spearheads initiatives in Tribal sector engagement, such as strategic planning and implementation of microgrid systems, renewable energy solutions, and energy efficiency strategies.

Before joining Säzän Group, Sean spent nearly ten years with the Lummi Indian Business Council, where he developed a robust skill set in tribal economic development and program management. His responsibilities included strategic communications with tribal staff, the community, and the tribal council, as well as executing the directives, initiatives, and policies set forth by the council. As the Director of the Office of Economic Policy and Interim General Manager, he played a key role in the energy task force for Lummi, focusing on implementing goals from Lummi’s Strategic Energy Plan and the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Plan 2016-2026. Currently he serves on the Board of The Lummi Development Holding Company as Secretary/Treasurer and Chairman of the Lummi Tribal Gaming Commission.

Sean’s expertise is further supported by certifications in leadership and economic development from the Native Nations Institute in Arizona, underscoring his dedication to advancing tribal interests and promoting sustainable development. Recognized by the Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce as a 2024 Top 7 Under 40 in Whatcom County, Sean’s leadership continues to contribute to the community.

Dream job (if you weren’t working here!)?
Furthering Coast Salish Developments, LLC to draft business plans, conduct financial analysis and strategic recommendations for tribal communities.
Mountains, coast, or desert?
Coast because I was born and raised on the Lummi Reservation.
Favorite book?
Principles by Ray Dalio
Cats, dogs, or other?
Dog and Chickens are my favorite animals!
Title your autobiography.
“Pathways of Resilience: A journey in leadership and health”
Best bit of advice you have ever received?
“Always give back more than you receive.”