Meet Justin Harlan, the Managing Director of Tulsa Remote, a program honored on Fast Company's prestigious list of World's Most Innovative Companies for 2022, which recognized its unique approach to attracting remote workers to Tulsa and promoting economic development in the city. Under Justin’s leadership Tulsa Remote, the largest relocation incentive program in the U.S., has grown to more than 2,500 members.
Born in Tulsa and raised in Kansas City, Justin returned to Tulsa to attend The University of Tulsa and, after graduation, began his career in the nonprofit space before returning to The University of Tulsa to earn his Master of Business Administration.
“I love working with people and establishing systems that help organizations sustain growth and solve problems creatively. My job as managing director gives me a great opportunity to do each of those things every day,” Justin says.
Justin has represented Tulsa Remote at international conferences like Web Summit and Collision Conference, where he has shared the power of the program’s community-building efforts and the benefits of remote work.
He previously served as the Senior Executive Director for Reading Partners Tulsa, launched his career with Teach For America when it opened in Tulsa in 2009, and was a founding board member for Collegiate Hall College Prep Charter School in Tulsa.
“There is something special about what is happening in our city right now. I feel like we can all see what is possible, and organizations across the city are strategically working together to bring this vision to fruition,” he adds. “I’m doing this work because I believe we are all creating a better Tulsa, and that is the Tulsa I want for all kids, including mine, to thrive in and for it to be a place where they can unlock their potential.”
Justin's passion for promoting community growth and development also extends to his personal life. He and his wife, Megan, run the Pure Barre South Tulsa fitness studio. They also have two children, Landon and Peyton. In his free time, Justin enjoys golfing, drinking a good craft beer or cup of coffee, and rooting for his favorite sports teams - the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, and Kansas Jayhawks.