Economic Development Council for Island County Announces Sarah Bishop as New Executive Director
Experienced Nonprofit and Business Development Leader to Spearhead Organization’s Work Across Whidbey and Camano Islands
COUPEVILLE, WASH., SEPT. 3, 2026 – The Economic Development Council for Island County (EDC) has named Sarah Bishop as its new Executive Director.
A South Whidbey Island resident and community leader, Bishop brings more than 20 years of experience in strategic partnerships, business development and nonprofit leadership to the role. Most recently, she served as Director of Business Development at brick&batten, where she built and scaled a strategic partner network and led cross-functional revenue growth initiatives. Her career has spanned both startup and established organizations, with experience across media licensing, real estate and technology.
Earlier in her career, Bishop managed high-profile corporate partnerships at the Tribeca Film Festival, stewarding multi-year relationships with organizations including Delta Air Lines, NBCUniversal, AT&T and The New York Times.
Bishop is deeply rooted in the Island County community. She currently serves as President of the Board of Directors of the South Whidbey Parks and Aquatics Foundation and volunteers with Whidbey Island Nourishes. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts from the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
“Sarah brings the experience, perspective and community commitment to strengthen partnerships and expand the EDC’s reach across Island County,” said Jeffery Pleet, president of the EDC Board. “We’re excited about what’s ahead and confident her leadership will help build on the strong work already underway.”
Bishop joins the EDC at a time of continued collaboration and opportunity across Island County. As Executive Director, she will lead the organization’s work to support businesses and entrepreneurs, advancing opportunities throughout Whidbey and Camano Islands, working alongside elected officials, public agencies, educational institutions and community partners.
“Sarah Bishop was a clear choice for the next ED throughout our hiring process. Her passion for this community emanates from the moment you meet her,” said Marie Shimada Haynes, vice president, EDC Board. “As the EDC is involved in a diverse realm of stakeholders and businesses, Sarah’s background also demonstrates a career of diverse leadership and successes that position her to lead with a clear, collaborative vision. Our last director left very large shoes to fill, and Sarah showed no hesitation in lacing up those metaphorical shoes to help us all move forward together.”
“I am proud to call Island County home, and I could not be more excited to put my experience to work for this community.” said Bishop. “The EDC plays a vital role in the future of Island County. I look forward to working alongside our business leaders, elected officials, and community partners to drive innovation, sustainable growth, and a truly thriving community.”
About the Economic Development Council for Island County
The Economic Development Council for Island County (EDC) is dedicated to strengthening the economic vitality of Whidbey and Camano Islands. An independent member-supported nonprofit and Island County’s designated Associate Development Organization (ADO) with the Washington State Department of Commerce, the EDC works closely with businesses, elected officials, government agencies and community organizations. Together, these partnerships strengthen economic resilience, support local businesses, improve regional infrastructure and foster collaborative opportunities that create jobs and promote equitable and sustainable prosperity while preserving the islands’ exceptional quality of life. Learn more at: https://www.edcislandcounty.org
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