Washington State Association of Counties Names Derek Young as Executive Director

OLYMPIA, WA — The Washington State Association of Counties (WSAC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Interim Executive Director Derek Young as the association’s permanent Executive Director. After an extensive national search process, the Board of Directors concluded its efforts with a vote of approval during its quarterly meeting on Thursday, May 8, in SeaTac, WA.

“We are pleased to have selected a candidate who brings deep experience and a strong commitment to county government in Washington State,” shared WSAC President and Executive Search Committee member, Rob Coffman. “We are working together to ensure a smooth transition and are confident our organization and membership are in capable hands.”

Mr. Young has served as WSAC’s Interim Executive Director since May 2024. His career in public service includes two decades of service as a councilmember for the City of Gig Harbor and Pierce County. He has been involved in government advocacy on both state and national levels, serving as co-chair on WSAC’s Legislative Steering Committee and on the National Association of Counties’ Health Policy Steering Committee.

Derek stated, "I'm grateful for the Board's trust. It's a pleasure to work with our incredible WSAC team, supporting county public servants and their critical work."

His appointment as Executive Director is effective immediately.

Created in 1906, the Washington State Association of Counties (WSAC) is a voluntary, non-profit association serving Washington’s 39 counties. WSAC members include elected county commissioners, council members, and executives.

WSAC provides various services to its member counties, including advocacy, training, workshops, and a forum to network and share best practices. WSAC also serves as an umbrella for affiliate organizations representing county road engineers, local public health officials, county administrators, county planners, emergency managers, county human service administrators, solid waste managers, clerks of county boards, and others.

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Media Contact:

Mitch Netzer
Email: mnetzer@wsac.org
Phone: (360) 458-8549
Website: www.wsac.org