Jessika Portney

Jessika Portney is a seasoned leadership development specialist and executive coach with expertise in strategy, program management, and relationship building for continuing education platforms that attract established and emerging public sector and non-profit leaders in the US and abroad. Jessika has designed and led leadership and workforce training programs for USAID, Department of State, and other US government entities. In her most recent position at The Brookings Institution, Jessika oversaw strategy, design, operations, and partnerships for an acclaimed suite of leadership programs for federal executives. With a win-win focus on revenue and participant experience, she served as the organization’s chief contact to priority partners, ensuring that programs met their needs as well as addressed opportunities and challenges with today’s evolving federal workforce and job markets. Jessika is a compassionate and energetic consultant, coach, and facilitator who thrives on championing others and being a catalyst for positive change. She is particularly passionate about women’s empowerment, equity and social justice, and the vital importance of a growth mindset. 

Jessika obtained an M.A. in Government and Politics with a concentration in International Relations from St. John’s University in Rome, Italy. She graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park with a B.A. dual degree in Communication and Italian Language & Literature.