West Palm Beach - October 2025

10 W E S T PA L M B E A C H | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 5 F or more than three decades, Kelly Smallridge has stood at the epicenter of Palm Beach County’s evolution, from a retirement haven known for sunshine and tourism to a nationally recognized hub for innovation, finance, education, and healthcare. As President and CEO of the Business Development Board (BDB) of Palm Beach County, Smallridge has helped reshape the region’s economic identity with a style of leadership that is as collaborative as it is relentless. “To me, leadership is all about inspiring and empowering others,” Smallridge said. “As an executive, you can only accomplish so much on your own. But when you help people reach their full potential and they truly believe in the mission, that’s when you can grow farther than you ever imagined.” Kelly Smallridge PRESIDENT & CEO - BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT BOARD OF PALM BEACH COUNTY PROFILES OF LEADERSHIP COVER FEATURE – By Dan Hauser – - Photos by Neil Cohen Photography -