Rachel Smith,
President & CEO

Rachel Smith serves as the President and CEO of the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, representing 2,500 businesses and about 750,000 employees. She is recognized by regional leaders for building effective coalitions, synthesizing and analyzing complex information, making systems work for the people they are intended to serve, and working collaboratively to secure significant policy achievements that enrich and foster the growth of the regional business community.

Rachel has played a pivotal role in delivering government investments that generate economic benefit and enhance quality of life for employers and their employees, including securing voter approval for transit proposals, authorization of investments in sporting venues and hospital infrastructure, helping businesses navigate the pandemic, and in 2022, securing passage of Move Ahead Washington, a state transportation package that included many business community priorities.

To help leaders understand community needs and encourage officials to make evidence-based decisions on regional priorities, Rachel spearheaded and directed the launch of the Chamber’s semi-annual research project on quality of life, The Index. During her time as President and CEO, Rachel has championed Seattle’s minority-owned businesses through advocacy work and dedicated programs, and under her direction the Chamber has experienced a strong increase in membership, revenue and overall value.

Rachel brings 20+ years of government affairs, policy, operations, and advocacy experience, including 13 years serving in local and regional government. Prior to her Chamber role, she served as Deputy County Executive and Chief of Staff to King County Executive Dow Constantine. Earlier in her career, Rachel served as Government and Community Relations Officer for Sound Transit, and in the Seattle Metro Chamberistration of former Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels. In 2022, Rachel served on the search committee for the Seattle Police Chief and King County Prosecuting Attorney Leesa Manion’s transition team. Rachel also advocates for employers on the Long-Term Services and Supports Trust Commission.

Rachel’s experience spans the nonprofit sector, where she has served both as staff and as a board member. Currently, Rachel serves on the board of United Way of King County, Seattle Aquarium, the Association of Washington Business, and the Seattle Sports Commission. Since 2021, Rachel has been an active member of Seattle 4 Rotary.