Jana Nelson

Jana leads the Institute’s engagement in Latin America, working with political leaders, regional institutions and development partners to drive reform and strengthen delivery across the region. Drawing on her experience in policy, diplomacy and strategy, she supports governments to achieve sustainable growth and build modern, citizen-centred institutions in a world being reshaped by AI.

Jana previously served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Western Hemisphere Affairs at the US Department of Defense, advising on security and defence policy across the Americas. She has also held senior roles in the US Department of State, the US Senate and the US Mission to the United Nations.