Jessica Johnson

Senior Policy Advisor, Fiscal and Budget at Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development

Jessica L. Johnson is the Assistant Commissioner of Administration and Operations at the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD).1 2 She was appointed to this position in November 2023, after previously serving as the senior advisor for budget, finance and policy.2

Johnson has been with TNECD since 2004, where she has been responsible for managing the department's budget, which exceeds $1 billion.1 2 Her role involves providing strategic leadership to the administration and operations division, including budget, finance, strategy, and research teams.1

Education and Certifications

Bachelor of Arts in English and Gender Studies from Vanderbilt University (2002)1
Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Vanderbilt University's Owen School of Management (2016)1
Certificate of Public Leadership from Harvard Kennedy School of Government1
Certificate of Theology and Ministry from Princeton Theology Seminary1
Currently pursuing a Master of Divinity degree at Duke University Divinity School1 4

Professional Achievements

Received the Tennessee Governor's Excellence in Service Award in 20171 3
Serves on the board of directors and as treasurer of Millions of Conversations1
Consulting advisor for Soulfire International Ministries1

Personal

Johnson is an ordained elder at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Nashville, where she serves in congregational care, Christian education, and as the administrator of the Ministers in Training program.1 She values community service and has participated in various organizations, including the American Cancer Society and Urban League.1