MEDA Members’ Corner: Jessica Reynolds

Jessica Reynolds
Senior Director, Office of International Investment and Trade
Maryland Department of Commerce

Explain your background in economic development
Prior to joining Commerce’s International Office, I spent 7 years in the international aid field, focused on economic development projects in emerging markets. My educational background focused on the intersection of urban planning, culture, and economic development. I recently earned my CEcD certification in March 2021.

What are your key priorities within your current position?
Promoting Maryland internationally, attracting foreign investment to the State, and supporting Maryland exporters

What are your locality’s top three “selling points” for future growth?
Top workforce
Diversity
Quality of life

Please include any personal background information that you’d like to share (Alma mater, Military Service, hobbies, etc)
I am a proud alumna of two Maryland universities: Loyola University Maryland and University of Maryland College Park.