Jessica Walker

Jessica Walker serves as the President and CEO of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, an organization pivotal to the borough's economic landscape. In this capacity, she acts as the primary convener, influential voice, and dedicated advocate for more than 125,000 businesses across Manhattan, recognized as the core of New York City’s economy. Ms. Walker is distinguished as a dynamic thought leader with a deep commitment to fostering the prosperity of New York's residents, businesses, and communities.

A Career Defined by Economic and Community Impact

Prior to her leadership at the Chamber, Ms. Walker held the position of Vice President for Government Affairs at the Partnership for New York City, an organization representing the city’s major corporate employers. She served as a policy analyst, writer, and strategic advisor for the organization's influential CEO, with the mandate of accelerating New York City's economic recovery following the Great Recession of 2008.

Earlier in her career, Ms. Walker was a prominent advocate for older New Yorkers. At the New York Academy of Medicine, she oversaw the successful launch of Age-friendly New York City, a public-private initiative designed to enhance the city's livability for seniors based on their direct recommendations. This impactful work led to the implementation of 59 policy improvements by former Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

Ms. Walker also contributed as a policy analyst at United Neighborhood Houses, a nonprofit association of social service providers. In this role, she authored a seminal report that exposed the high rate of seniors aging alone without adequate support. This research was instrumental in elevating the issue of social isolation to a national priority for the AARP Foundation.

Current Engagements and Recognition

Ms. Walker's commitment to community and economic development is further demonstrated through her service on several boards. She is a member of the Board of Directors for United Neighborhood Houses, an association of community centers and settlement houses that deliver essential community-based human services throughout New York, and Pursuit Lending, a community development financial institution (CDFI) focused on investing in local businesses.

Additionally, Ms. Walker is an appointed member of Governor Hochul's Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) for New York City, where she contributes to strategic economic planning for the region.

Her professional achievements have garnered significant recognition. In 2024, she was included on City & State's "Manhattan Power 100" and "Economic Development Trailblazers" lists. In 2022, she was also featured among the "Notable Black Leaders" by Crain's New York Business.

Ms. Walker is a graduate of Princeton University and a proud resident of Harlem. She was born in Detroit and raised on the Navajo Nation in New Mexico.