Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) announced that Jaclyn Levy has joined the team as its new senior director of advocacy and government affairs.
A seasoned public policy leader, Levy brings a unique perspective and a strong track record of implementing innovative solutions across diverse industries into her new role as senior director of advocacy and government affairs.
Prior to joining OIA, Levy executed thought leadership, partnership and legislative strategy as director of U.S. policy for a $1B global impact fund. Levy also oversaw multiple programs and portfolios as director of public policy at the Infectious Diseases Society of America, a 12,000-member trade association, and was selected as a 2020 Atlantic Council Millennium Fellow where she contributed to numerous policy publications and dialogues with global leaders.
“Jaclyn brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to OIA and our highly active and engaged government affairs program,” said Kent Ebersole, president of OIA. “With Jaclyn blazing the trail, we will continue to unify the voices of our member-led collective and advocate for policies that create jobs, invest in outdoor recreation, protect our environment, and expand outdoor access for all.”
In addition to serving as a subject matter expert and leading policy and advocacy coalitions, Levy has cultivated supply chain, trade and sustainability expertise as a senior analyst for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and as a consultant for industrial trade associations and federal agencies. She received her undergraduate degree from The George Washington University and holds an M.S. from Georgetown University.
The search for OIA’s Senior Director of Advocacy and Government Affairs was conducted by Axis Talent Partners, an executive search firm focused on recruiting leaders for social impact organizations.
“The outdoor industry is a critical sector of the US economy and a growing source of jobs and investment for companies and communities. Building and maintaining the outdoor recreation economy requires policymaking that protects public land and supports business opportunities across a wide variety of industries,” said Levy upon accepting her new position. “I’m thrilled to join the OIA team and work with members to advocate for policies that promote conservation, innovation, and sustainable growth and help preserve and enhance equitable access to outdoor recreation.”
With a policy background spanning investing, nonprofit management and research — and as a lifelong outdoor enthusiast — Levy is uniquely positioned to navigate the intersections of industry, government and public affairs, the organization said. Her leadership will be instrumental in advancing sustainable growth and driving transformative policies that will shape the future of outdoor recreation and expand access for generations to come.