Kim Bardakian is a Communications and External Affairs leader focused on elevating Oakland through strategic storytelling, media, events, and community engagement. She shapes a positive narrative for the city by securing impactful media coverage, producing high-visibility experiences, and building strong private-public partnerships. Most recently, she led the citywide celebration rally honoring Olympic gold medalist Alysa Liu, generating national attention and showcasing Oakland’s pride and unity.

Previously, Kim held roles with the Kapor Center and Visit Oakland, where she built a reputation as a strategic communicator and master connector. She is the founder of BarCom and co-founder of Town Love, bringing an entrepreneurial approach to amplifying impact through partnerships and storytelling. A native New Yorker, Kim holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from the University of Michigan and enjoys tennis, local dining, and exploring the Bay Area with her husband and friends.