Yvette Simpson

Yvette Simpson is a lawyer, politician, executive strategist, and public voice whose career spans public service, progressive advocacy, and leadership development. Simpson served six years on Cincinnati City Council, including four years as president pro tempore. Her swearing-in marked the first African-American majority on the council. Simpson later challenged incumbent Mayor John Cranley in the Cincinnati mayoral election, receiving a higher percentage of votes in the primary than her top competitors.

Simpson became chief executive of Democracy for America, a national progressive grassroots organizing group founded by Howard Dean, and was the organization's first female chief executive. In this role, she partnered with and advised hundreds of political leaders nationwide. After her tenure at Democracy for America, Simpson focused on entrepreneurship and consulting. She is the founder and CEO of Yvette Simpson LLC, Your Power Unlocked, a strategic consulting, speaking, and training firm specializing in executive and political strategy, communications, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Simpson is also a licensed attorney and serves as director of culture and belonging at UB Greensfelder law firm.

As a CEO, media contributor, and national speaker, Simpson is a political contributor with ABC News and a panelist for NPR. She has trained and spoken at events including South by Southwest, the International Association of Expositions and Events Women's Leadership Forum, Ida's Legacy, the YWCA Career Women of Achievement luncheon, and TEDx Cincinnati. Her book, "On Purpose: The Power of Authenticity and Intention," explores lessons from her career and her work mentoring, coaching, and advising others in law, education, public service, and political strategy. Simpson also hosts the podcast "The Power of Y."

Simpson has been recognized as a YWCA Career Woman of Achievement, a Top 100 Influencer by American City Business Journals, a Woman of Influence by Venue Magazine, a Woman of Distinction by Girl Scouts of Western Ohio, and a Woman Who Means Business by Cincinnati Business Courier. Active in her community, Simpson has served on boards and commissions including the YWCA, Urban League, and Contemporary Art Center. She serves as board chair for MORTAR and Seven Hills Neighborhood Houses and is a member of the Xavier University Executive MBA Business Executive Advisory Board. With a background in law, politics, media, and organizational leadership, Simpson is a prominent voice in American civic life.