Smiling woman with long hair wearing a pink blazer and black top

Jennifer Wakefield

President & Chief Executive Officer, Greater Richmond Partnership

Visionary Economic Development Leader & Strategic Storyteller

Jennifer Wakefield is President and CEO of the Greater Richmond Partnership (GRP), where she leads efforts to attract business investment and elevate Richmond’s profile as a top-tier destination for innovation and growth. Since stepping into the role in 2021, she has expanded GRP’s board, boosted investor engagement, and launched a new strategic framework that’s driving results across the region.

  • Prior to joining GRP, Jennifer spent over a decade leading marketing and communications for the Orlando Economic Partnership, where her work helped secure record-breaking funding and transform regional perceptions. A recognized leader in economic development and strategic communications, she’s been named a Top 50 Economic Developer by Consultant Connect and a Top 40 Under 40 by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and Development Counsellors International (DCI).

    Jennifer holds a master’s in communications from the University of Central Florida and a bachelor’s in public relations and advertising from the University of West Florida. She currently serves on multiple regional and national advisory councils and can often be found exploring Richmond with her husband, son, and their miniature poodle.