Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation Announces Jessica Reynolds as Chief Operating Officer

Jessica previously served as Senior Director of the Office of International Investment and Trade (OIIT) at the Maryland Department of Commerce.

Montgomery County, MD – The Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) today announced Jessica Reynolds as its new Chief Operating Officer, marking a strategic addition to its executive leadership team at a pivotal time for the County’s economic growth and global competitiveness.

As Montgomery County continues to strengthen its position as a leading destination for life sciences, advanced technology, and innovation, Reynolds will play a critical role in driving operational excellence, advancing strategic initiatives, and deepening partnerships that support business growth and investment across the region.

Reynolds joins MCEDC from the Maryland Department of Commerce, where she most recently served as Senior Director of the Office of International Investment and Trade (OIIT). In this role, she led the State’s international investment and export efforts for seven years, helping to expand Maryland’s foreign direct investment strategy and launch key initiatives such as the Maryland Innovation Lab, Global Gateway Program, and Soft Landing Exchange Program. Under her leadership, OIIT was awarded the prestigious President’s E Star Award for Export Service in 2021.

“Jessica brings a unique combination of economic development expertise, operational leadership, a global perspective, and deep understanding of Maryland’s economic landscape,” said Jared Smith, President and CEO of MCEDC. “At a time when Montgomery County is accelerating its efforts to enhance economic competitiveness, her experience will be instrumental in helping us execute on our strategic priorities.”

Prior to her leadership role at OIIT, Reynolds served as a regional manager at the Maryland Department of Commerce, covering South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. Earlier in her career, she worked on international economic development initiatives with the U.S. Government, the World Bank, and other global partners.

A Certified Economic Developer (CEcD), Reynolds is an active leader in the field, serving on the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) International Advisory Committee and the Maryland Economic Development Association Foundation Board. She is also a graduate of the Leadership Maryland Executive Program and holds a master’s degree from the University of Maryland, College Park, and a bachelor’s degree from Loyola University Maryland.

“Montgomery County is at a turning point, with tremendous assets in talent, research, and industry,” said Reynolds. “I’m excited to join MCEDC and work alongside partners across the ecosystem to build on that momentum, strengthen our global reach, and support the next generation of companies and innovators.”

A long-time Montgomery County resident, Reynolds is actively involved in the community through volunteer work with the Julius West Parent Teacher Student Association and the Montgomery County 4-H Program. She lives in Rockville with her husband and two children.

Reynolds will officially join MCEDC as Chief Operating Officer on April 20, 2026.

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