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Reta Jo Lewis

Chair of the Board of Directors, President & CEO of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (2022–2025)

Leverages decades of high-level experience to unlock strategic opportunities in trade finance, national security, and global partnerships
Successfully negotiated and advanced bipartisan policies that fueled economic growth and global competitiveness
Inspires audiences with compelling stories of diplomacy, leadership, and negotiation, equipping them to thrive in a rapidly changing world

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Hon. Reta Jo Lewis is a distinguished leader in international trade, finance, and bipartisan collaboration, serving as the 27th President and Chair of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM). The first African American and only the second woman to hold this position, she spearheaded initiatives that expanded EXIM’s financing authority to $135 billion, supporting U.S. businesses in over 177 countries. With over three decades of experience spanning global economic policy, legal advisory, and public service, Lewis has been at the forefront of shaping U.S. trade finance strategy in competitive global markets.

Chair Lewis has worked in three presidential administrations, played a pivotal role in revitalizing EXIM’s global partnerships, and enhanced public-private sector collaborations to strengthen U.S. industries. Her leadership helped facilitate billions in U.S. export sales, directly supporting American jobs and fostering resilience in critical industries such as clean energy, infrastructure, and digital technology. She has also been instrumental in forging bipartisan alliances, including with members of Congress and international trade organizations, to ensure that American businesses remain competitive.

Exclusively represented by Leading Authorities speakers bureau, Chair Lewis offers audiences unique insight into global markets. She has a pragmatic yet optimistic approach, breaking down complex geopolitical and economic trends while offering actionable strategies for businesses, policymakers, and leaders looking to thrive in a rapidly shifting world. Her engaging presentation style is informed by real-world experience as she shares behind-the-scenes stories of negotiations, high-level decision-making, and global economic leadership.

Audiences can expect thought-provoking discussions on the future of U.S. trade and foreign partnerships, strategies for strengthening American competitiveness, and the power of bipartisan problem-solving in addressing today’s most pressing challenges. Chair Lewis delivers an inspiring and solutions-driven message that encourages bold, forward-thinking action.

Lewis holds a J.D. from Emory University School of Law, an M.S. from American University, and a B.A. from the University of Georgia.

Building Bridges: The Power of Bipartisan Collaboration. Drawing from her experience working across party lines in Congress, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and multiple presidential administrations, Reta Jo Lewis shares key insights into effective bipartisan negotiation. In an era of deep political divisions, she explains why finding common ground is not only possible but essential for economic stability and national security. As the first U.S. government official to lead a subnational engagement office within the U.S. State Department, she uniquely understands the role of state and local leaders in fostering bipartisan solutions that drive economic growth and strengthen diplomatic ties. With real-world examples, including her leadership at EXIM in gaining bipartisan support for critical industries, she outlines actionable strategies for business and political leaders to foster collaboration, drive results, and make lasting impact.

Thriving in Uncertainty: A Roadmap for Global Leadership and Economic Growth. With the world rapidly evolving, companies and governments must adapt—or risk being left behind. In this compelling talk, Lewis reframes uncertainty as an opportunity, offering a strategic outlook on global economic trends and how U.S. businesses can remain competitive. She highlights how international markets are moving forward with or without U.S. engagement, and why proactive leadership, strategic partnerships, and a global mindset are critical for success. Her tenure at the German Marshall Fund, one of the foremost think tanks promoting transatlantic relations, has given her a deep understanding of how global partnerships drive economic resilience and security. Through her deep expertise in trade finance, she provides audiences with tangible steps to navigate geopolitical uncertainty and leverage global opportunities in a shifting economic landscape.

The Future of Global Trade: Partnerships, Innovation, and the Evolving Role of the Private Sector. What does the future hold for U.S. businesses and their role in global commerce? With a robust understanding of the intersection between economic and national security, Reta Jo Lewis offers a forward-looking perspective on emerging trends, from reshoring and supply chain resilience to the increasing importance of public-private partnerships in driving innovation. She discusses how U.S. companies can strengthen global trade relationships, capitalize on new markets, and respond to the competitive challenges posed by China and other global players. This speech is ideal for leaders and decision makers who want to stay ahead of the curve and understand the next phase of international trade and economic diplomacy.