(February 3, 2025) – The Silicon Valley Leadership Group (SVLG) – the leading business association representing the innovation economy and its ecosystem – is excited to share that Laura Wilkinson has been named Senior Vice President, Strategy and External Affairs.
In this role, Laura will focus on shaping SVLG’s strategic direction, driving long-term growth, and aligning the organization’s work with its mission to advance innovation and business competitiveness in Silicon Valley and across the greater Bay Area.
As SVP of Strategy and External Affairs, Laura will oversee advocacy, communications, and events, fostering a cohesive and impactful approach that delivers significant value to SVLG members. Her extensive experience in public affairs and strategic communications, coupled with her background in government and policy research, positions her uniquely to drive SVLG’s initiatives forward.
Most recently, Laura has served as SVLG’s SVP of Communications, where she played a key role in advancing the organization’s strategic messaging and external engagement.
A seasoned strategist with over 20 years of experience, Laura has held leadership roles in public affairs and strategic communications at Gap Inc., EVgo, and Ketchum. Prior to her work in the Bay Area, she served as Press Secretary to the late U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein on Capitol Hill. Additionally, she also held senior external affairs roles at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a bipartisan policy research institute in Washington, DC.
“Laura brings unparalleled expertise in strategic communications, public affairs, and government relations, coupled with a deep understanding of policy. Her addition to our executive leadership team is invaluable,” said Ahmad Thomas, CEO of SVLG. “Her expertise will be crucial in advancing our mission and strengthening SVLG’s position as the leading voice for Silicon Valley’s innovation economy.”
Laura holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations from Brown University and a Master’s degree in Political Communications from Johns Hopkins University.
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