Lead with clarity. Connect with purpose. Prepare for what’s next.

The 2026 Southside Leadership Conference brings together business owners, executives, policymakers, nonprofit leaders, entrepreneurs, and emerging professionals for a high-impact half-day experience focused on the issues shaping South King County’s future.

This is not just another leadership event. It is a space for real conversations, practical insight, and meaningful connection.

As our region continues to grow, shift, and respond to new economic, workforce, and policy challenges, leaders need more than inspiration. They need timely information, strong relationships, and strategies they can take back to their organizations right away.

This year’s conference will feature dynamic panel conversations focused on:

Economic Forecast
Understand the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping South King County’s business climate.

Confirmed Panelists

• Senator Tina Orwall, Washington State Senate, 33rd Legislative District
• Representative Mia Gregerson, Washington State Legislature
• Cathy Vue, Port of Seattle
• Crystal Leatherman, Director of Policy & Government Affairs, Washington Retail Association

Moderator

• Katherine Caffery, City Manager, City of Des Moines

Policy & Regulatory Outlook
Hear what employers and community leaders should be paying attention to as legislative and regulatory decisions continue to impact the way we work and do business.

Confirmed Panelists

• Max Martin, Government Affairs Director, Association of Washington Business (AWB)
• Andrea Reay, Director of Policy & Government Affairs, Washington Hospitality Association

Moderator

• Carmen Goers, Vice President & Small Business Banking Relationship Manager, WaFd Bank 

Financial Leadership
Build confidence around cash flow, budgeting, capital access, and the financial decisions that support long-term organizational resilience.

Confirmed Panelists

• Harris Anwar, Branch Manager, BECU

Moderator

• Joe Sky-Tucker, President & CEO, Business Impact NW

Strategic Goal Setting & Adaptive Leadership
Learn how to lead through change, align your work to bigger goals, and move strategy into action even when priorities shift.

Moderator

• Shannon Braddock, President & CEO, Greater Seattle Partners

Fireside Chat: The Journey So Far — Resilience, Risk & Reinvention
Close the day with an honest and inspiring conversation about leadership, perseverance, growth, and staying grounded in purpose.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with peers, mentors, business leaders, and community partners during networking breaks and the lunch resource fair.

Whether you are a seasoned executive, a small business owner, a nonprofit leader, a manager, or an emerging professional ready to grow, this conference is designed to help you sharpen your leadership, expand your network, and leave with practical tools to support your next step.

Featured Guest

• Girmay Zahilay, King County Executive

Moderator

• Mayor Thomas McLeod, City of Tukwila

Join us for a powerful afternoon of insight, connection, and momentum as we strengthen the leaders shaping the future of South King County!

Why Attend?

You should attend if you want to:

• Gain timely insight into the economic and policy issues impacting our region
• Strengthen your leadership skills in a changing business environment
• Connect with regional decision-makers, employers, entrepreneurs, and emerging leaders
• Walk away with practical strategies for financial confidence, planning, and resilience
• Build relationships that support your professional growth and your organization’s success
• Be part of a signature regional gathering focused on leadership, innovation, and impact