Leah Goold-Haws

Partner – Economic Development & Global Trade

Leah Goold-Haws is a recognized leader in economic development with extensive experience building public–private partnerships and advancing global trade opportunities. Most recently, she served as President and CEO of the Long Beach Economic Partnership (LBEP), where she oversaw initiatives in business attraction, retention, workforce readiness, and economic growth for one of California’s largest cities. In collaboration with the Port of Long Beach, she also spearheaded the relaunch of the World Trade Center Long Beach, reinforcing the city’s position as a global commerce hub.

Leah has long been a champion of international trade and business development. She served as Commissioner for International Trade on the City of Long Beach Economic Commission and as President of the Long Beach International Business Association. At the statewide level, she led the California International Trade Center (CITC) and served as Sector Navigator for Global Trade across the California Community College system. Under her leadership, the CITC transitioned from traditional business counseling to innovative digital services, including online training and virtual trade mission readiness, enabling small businesses to expand into international markets through cross-border e-commerce.

Her career reflects a commitment to connecting local business with global opportunity, and she continues to help organizations navigate trade, growth, and funding landscapes with vision and impact.