May 26, 2026
BIAW's beloved Vice President of External Affairs Jan Himebaugh will be leaving BIAW on May 29 to lead the Washington Retail Association (WR).
“It’s hard to put into words just how much Jan Himebaugh has meant to, and accomplished for, BIAW during her nearly 15 years with this organization,” said BIAW Executive Vice President Greg Lane. “Our members, staff and the business community as a whole have benefited from her passionate, knowledgeable, strategic, dedicated and persistent advocacy.”
In the 15 years since Himebaugh joined BIAW, she’s helped pass dozens of pro-housing bills, including the “Hirst fix” which restored access to water for new construction in many rural areas. She’s also fought off even more bad bills.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Himebaugh was instrumental in working with BIAW leadership to reopen construction five weeks earlier than other industries. She and her team established the Washington Center for Housing Studies to educate members of the public, policy makers and the media about issues affecting housing affordability and impacts on home building and home ownership.
She also led efforts to protect natural gas as an energy choice by helping to collect more than 540,000 signatures to bring Initiative 2066 to a vote then representing BIAW in the media and in public forums to help persuade voters to approve the initiative.
“Jan is one of the most effective lobbyists in the Legislature and has created a tremendous legacy at BIAW, both with policy success as well as the many friendships she has built with members and all of us,” Lane said. “I am excited for Jan to have the opportunity to take the next step in her career, which is very well deserved. Of course, I am also disappointed to lose such a smart, talented and trusted leader – and friend – from our organization.”
“This is bittersweet for me because I grew up at BIAW,” Himebaugh said. “But I’m excited to lead WR as we strengthen Washington’s business community, and I know BIAW will continue to be a partner and champion.”
Himebaugh will officially assume her new role with WR on June 1.
