Jackie Reisner

Presentation: Empower Yourself and Others: The Art of Effective Advocacy in Project Management

Abstract: In my upcoming presentation titled “Empower Yourself and Others: The Art of Effective Advocacy in Project Management,” I will delve into the importance of advocacy within project management teams, especially for project managers. By defining advocacy and showcasing its significance, I aim to equip participants with actionable strategies they can implement immediately as self-advocates, peer advocates, and team advocates in their project management roles.

The presentation will be structured around three key themes: self-awareness, exposure opportunities, and results-orientation. Through these lenses, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how to advocate effectively for themselves and others. A special emphasis will be placed on leadership advocacy, with discussion on conversation roadmaps for both self-advocacy and advocating as a leader. Incorporating principles of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I), I will stress the importance of considering inclusion and equity when advocating for others. By weaving these concepts into the advocacy framework, participants will learn how to approach advocacy discussions with sensitivity and awareness. To encourage actionable takeaways, the presentation will conclude with a call to action prompting participants to identify specific changes they will make following the presentation.

Additionally, participants will be encouraged to share their commitments with someone else to establish an accountability partnership for ongoing support and follow-through. By the end of the presentation, attendees will have a toolbox of practical ideas for enhancing self-awareness, seizing exposure opportunities, and driving results in their advocacy efforts. Whether advocating for themselves or others, participants will leave with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate advocacy conversations effectively and make a positive impact within their project management teams.

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills


Biography: Jackie Reisner boasts an impressive career as a seasoned HR professional and Project Manager, amassing 17 years of expertise in Talent Management and Industrial/Organizational Psychology. Currently serving as the Senior Manager of Talent Management and Performance at Northrop Grumman’s Defense Systems sector, Jackie brings a wealth of knowledge and a diverse perspective to her project management endeavors.

Having commenced her journey with Northrop Grumman in 2008 through a prestigious HR Leadership Program, Jackie has since held pivotal roles within the organization. Notably, she excelled as the Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion for Defense Systems, spearheading DE&I initiatives and training on a company-wide scale. Prior to this, she led TA Operations and University Relations & Recruiting Manager for Defense Systems, overseeing all aspects of Talent Acquisition operations within the sector. Jackie’s portfolio also encompasses a range of leadership positions in Talent Management & Development, DE&I, HRIS, and Talent Acquisition both at the sector and corporate levels.

Jackie holds two Master’s Degrees – a M.S. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from the University of Maryland, College Park, and a M.A. in Human Resources Management from the University of South Carolina’s Moore School of Business. Complementing her graduate education, she earned a B.A. in Political Science from Rollins College. Furthermore, Jackie holds a host of certifications in HR, training/instructional design, leadership and professional development, as well as project management/change management.

Beyond her contributions to Northrop Grumman, Jackie extends her expertise through professional coaching services, talent management consultation, and leadership and professional training. An adept speaker on various professional topics, Jackie is a sought-after expert in the field, showcasing her commitment to empowering individuals and organizations alike.

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