(The Center Square) – Seattle’s largest independent business organization will be led by departing Washington State Department of Commerce Director Joe Nguyen beginning in early 2026.
The Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce selected Nguyen as its next permanent president and CEO following Rachel Smith’s departure to lead the Washington Roundtable.
In a statement, Nguyen said the chamber plays a critical role in advocating for policies that support businesses and the region’s economic stability.
“My priority is to work closely with our members and policymakers to strengthen the business climate, ensure smart use of public resources, and advance solutions that support job creation, affordability, and a safe, thriving regional economy,” he said.
Gov. Bob Ferguson first named Nguyen as state commerce department director on Dec. 27, 2024, and his first day was Jan. 15. Prior to that, Nguyen served as state senator from Nov. 2018 to Jan. 2025, representing the 34th Legislative District that encompasses Burien, White Center, Vashon and Maury Island, and the Seattle neighborhoods of SODO and West Seattle.
As state senator, Nguyen served as chair of the Environment, Energy & Technology Committee and vice chair of the Ways & Means Committee. His legislation focused on housing affordability, health care, public transit, climate and education.
Nguyen also held leadership roles at Microsoft and Expedia.
Recently-elected King County Executive Girmay Zahilay spoke highly of Nguyen, saying that he could not think of a better partner in building the region’s economy as he begins his first term.
“Joe is collaborative, pragmatic, and smart as hell, with a deep understanding that a strong business community goes hand in hand with taking care of people,” Zahilay said.
Nguyen will lead the business advocacy organization’s 2,500 members in reaching its regional economic prosperity goals. The Seattle Metro Chamber represents businesses employing approximately 750,000 employees.
As director of the state Department of Commerce, Nguyen handled $7.9 billion dollars with a portfolio of more than 100 programs and several state boards and commissions.
Nguyen could see higher compensation in his new role if his pay is comparable to Smith’s 2024 $424,510 paycheck, according to ProPublica’s nonprofit database.
Nguyen will officially assume his new role at the end of January.
