A Higher Calling: How Beach Pace Turned Military Service into Community Impact
I admired Beach Pace long before Suzanne Hanifin and I launched Hiring For Good, which makes this episode- and the opportunity to share her insights- all the more meaningful. Beach has demonstrated remarkable leadership in her dual roles as CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Columbia Northwest and Mayor of Hillsboro, Oregon. But her experience as an officer in the U.S. Army that laid the foundation for her unique approach to mission-driven leadership, which she shares candidly in this conversation.
Beach’s career has always centered around people and service. After graduating from West Point, she served in the Army in both domestic and overseas posts, where she honed her leadership skills in high-pressure environments. Her transition to the private sector brought new challenges, but the rigid culture ultimately led her to pursue mission-driven work that aligned more closely with her values. That shift brought her into the non-profit sector, where she found her calling in social impact leadership.
As CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Columbia Northwest since 2016, Beach has led with empathy, adaptability, and a focus on excellence. Under her leadership, the organization has earned the BBBS National Gold STandard Award mullitple times, placing it amond the top 1% of affiliates nationwide. She oversees a team that supports over 500 youth-mentor matches across the Portland metro region. Her approach is holistic, ensuring that the families they serve have access to essentials like food, houseing, and technology- especially during critical times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
In addition to her nonprofit leadership, Beach has been deeply involved in local government. After moving to Hillsboro in 2012, she quickly engaged in community service, from organizing school events to writing grants for educational initiatives. Her election to the City Council in 2018, and later to the office of Mayor in 2024, reflects the trust the community places in her leadership.
Our conversation covers everything from military leadership to building inclusive communities. Beach reminds us that leadership is about presence, listening, and serving others.
This coming weekend, on Saturday, June 21st, I will be participating in the “Rappel for a Reason” fundraiser to support Beach’s leadership and my whole-hearted support of Big Brothers Big Sisters. I started this podcast because in executive search you get a front row seat to the impact leadership plays in organizational success. Mentorship makes an even deeper impact, as it is leadership distilled down to the personal level. I believe deeply in the BBBS mission because mentorship changes lives. I’ve currently raised $1150 out of a $1500 goal. If you are able, I welcome your generous support of my rappel down the side of the Hyatt on Saturday. Every dollar helps build a brighter future for the youth in our community. Help Tanis Rappel for a Reason! by Tanis Morris
Beach’s Bio
Beach Pace is a dynamic and values-driven leader dedicated to building stronger communities through service, mentorship, and visionary leadership. As Mayor of Hillsboro, Oregon, Beach brings a deep commitment to civic engagement, inclusive economic growth, and thoughtful urban development. Her leadership is grounded in collaboration and a clear-eyed focus on what makes communities thrive—connection, opportunity, and equity.
In addition to her role in public office, Beach serves as CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Columbia Northwest, where she has led the organization through a period of transformation and growth. Under her guidance, BBBS has expanded its reach and impact, forging meaningful mentorships that empower youth and strengthen families across the region. Beach’s career spans nonprofit management, military service, and community development, reflecting her lifelong dedication to service and her belief in the power of people to shape a better future.
Known for her authenticity, strategic mindset, and unwavering optimism, Beach is a respected leader who bridges sectors to drive meaningful change.