Larry Olmstead
Transformational Leader with Four Decades of Excellence in Media, Non-Profit Leadership, and Organizational Development
Transformational Leader with Four Decades of Excellence in Media, Non-Profit Leadership, and Organizational Development
Larry Olmstead grew up in New York, graduating from the prestigious Bronx High School of Science. After studying journalism and political science at George Washington University, Larry embarked on a successful media career that would span decades and earn national recognition.
Larry rose through the ranks of America's most prestigious newspapers, serving as City Editor of the Detroit Free Press, Special Projects Editor at The New York Times, and Managing Editor of the Miami Herald. He became a corporate officer for news and Human Resources at Knight Ridder, the Herald's parent company.
After the sale of Knight Ridder in 2006, Larry launched Leading Edge Associates, a consulting firm specializing in leadership and organizational development, executive coaching, and equity and diversity. This marked his transition from media leadership to organizational transformation expertise.
Following his passion for public service, Larry joined United Way Silicon Valley in 2010, rising to Vice President for Organizational Development. In 2016, he was named President & CEO of United Way of Northern California, based in Redding.
Under Larry's transformational leadership, the agency experienced unprecedented growth, expanding its impact more than five-fold while navigating multiple challenges including wildfire disasters and the pandemic. Larry retired from the CEO position in March 2025 but continues to advise the agency as a consultant.
Larry has taught and participated in executive development programs at Northwestern and Harvard universities, sharing his expertise with emerging leaders. He is currently completing his bachelor's degree in organizational leadership at Simpson University, demonstrating his commitment to lifelong learning.
Larry is deeply involved in tennis, holding instructor certifications from the Professional Tennis Registry. He has served in numerous volunteer roles for the United States Tennis Association, including regional Board member and national committee member for recreational league play.
Larry lives in Redding, California with his wife, Michele Chandler. The couple have two grown children and remain actively engaged in their community.
Leverage Larry's four decades of leadership experience to drive meaningful change in your organization.
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