On December 10, the Washington Retail Association marked the close of an extraordinary chapter as President & CEO Renée Sunde officially retired after eight years of transformative leadership.
Since stepping into the role in 2017, Renée has guided WR through a time of profound change in retail, rapid digital innovation, a global pandemic, and ongoing public safety challenges. Under her leadership, WR strengthened its statewide presence, elevated the voice of retailers in Olympia, and built powerful coalitions to address organized retail crime and chronic shoplifting. As Bartell Drugs founder George Bartell reflected, he has been “most heartened and impressed” by her efforts and knows she has done her “absolute best.”
Renée led WR’s advocacy through intense legislative sessions, including a 2025 session defined by a major budget shortfall and a sweeping $9.4 billion tax package. The team she assembled tracked nearly 1,900 bills and helped secure funding for public safety, prevent overbroad AI and data-privacy mandates, and stop or improve numerous regulatory and employment proposals that would have increased costs and complexity for retailers across the state.
Inside the association, Renée championed modernization and growth, overseeing a refreshed WR website, a new Membership Guide, the transition of Retail Services to Brown & Brown to strengthen the retro program, and the recruitment of several large new members. Her influence extended nationally as Chair of the National Council of State Retail Associations (CSRA), where she brought Washington’s retail voice to the national stage.
Colleagues and partners consistently describe Renée’s leadership as both strategic and deeply personal. Former Governor Christine Gregoire praised her “knowledge and can-do spirit” and the “wonderful legacy” she leaves. Senator Matt Boehnke highlighted not only her statewide impact but also her friendship. Longtime collaborator Dann Mead Smith called her “an outstanding leader and great partner on issues.”
Krista Beck, CEO of Jerry’s Auto Supply/Piston Service of Wenatchee, Inc. and WR Board Treasurer, said, “Renee is a gifted leader whose impact on WA State will benefit the retail industry for years to come. She has achieved these results with her unwavering professionalism, resilience, and, most importantly, a focus on people at the heart of everything she does. Being a leader isn’t easy, but she has done it with a grace that has inspired all of us to join her on this mission. We are so grateful for Renee and wish her a joyful and well-deserved next season in her retirement.”
As Renée steps into retirement, she leaves WR stronger, more resilient, and well-positioned for the future. On behalf of our board, members, and staff, we extend our deepest gratitude and warmest wishes to Renée for all she has done for the retail industry in Washington State.
