Jose Pelayo is the Director of Workforce Development at the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC), where he leads regional strategies that expand equitable access to economic opportunity for Angelenos. With over seven years of leadership experience, Jose has designed and managed workforce initiatives serving diverse populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness, opportunity youth, adults, seniors, and justice-involved individuals.

Jose’s career spans frontline and leadership roles as a case manager, job developer, probation officer, and program manager, shaping his approach to systems-level change that remains rooted in community needs. Born in Mexico and raised by a single parent, he brings lived experience, cultural competence, and resilience to his leadership, informing his commitment to equity-driven, people-centered solutions.

He holds a Master of Business Administration from California Baptist University and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from California State University, Dominguez Hills. Jose’s leadership focuses on building cross-sector partnerships, strengthening workforce systems, and driving measurable social and economic impact. Through his work at LAEDC, he remains dedicated to advancing inclusive growth while centering the voices and needs of historically underserved communities.