United Way of Tarrant County on Oct. 29 named Leah King president and CEO of the organization, effective Monday, Nov. 11.
On that day, King will report to United Way of Tarrant County’s board of directors. She currently serves as chief operating officer.
As president and CEO, King will provide leadership, set strategic direction and ensure operational excellence, in accordance with the values and mission of United Way of Tarrant County. She will be responsible for all aspects of the organization including fiscal oversight, growing financial support, developing processes and policies, facilitating cross-departmental collaboration and promoting a positive, multi-cultural environment.
“The board of directors is confident Leah will provide the inspired leadership to propel United Way of Tarrant County forward,” said James Powell, chairman of the Board of Directors for United Way of Tarrant County. “As we look toward the future and assess the role of the organization in the community, there is no one more qualified than Leah to bring together resources and create strong partnerships that confront complex social issues and address systemic challenges.”
As chief operating officer, King was responsible for driving the strategic direction of the organization in the areas of workplace campaign, donor relations, community investment and volunteer engagement. She was instrumental in creating the United Way of Tarrant County’s Strategic Plan and oversaw the development and launch of the 2018-2019 Community Assessment.
“It has been my pleasure to work alongside the talented and dedicated professionals, here at United Way of Tarrant County,” King said. “I am honored to have been chosen by the board of directors to lead this organization into our next chapter of service to Tarrant County.”
Prior to joining the staff of United Way, King spent her career in the private sector as a public affairs, community relations, investor relations and marketing professional. She currently serves as a director for Cook Children’s Medical Center and on the board of governors for the Fort Worth Club. She is also an active member of the Fort Worth (TX) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. King is a founding member of the United Way of Tarrant County’s Women United and has served as its Women’s Fund development committee chair.
King will succeed TD Smyers who announced his retirement earlier this year.