Based in the Washington, D.C. office, Nikia Pounds is a distinguished C-level executive with more than 20 years of Human Resources Management experience. She has a proven track record of building strong HR infrastructures and implementing forward-thinking policies that align with organizational goals. Her expertise spans organizational development, executive leadership coaching, change management, job classification and compensation, professional development and employee relations. She is known for her ability to drive organizational growth and performance while ensuring operational efficiency.

At Ocean Conservancy, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s people and culture strategies, fostering an inclusive and high-performing workplace.

Nikia holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and Administration from Hampton University. She is certified as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR®) by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and a Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

Born and raised in the D.C. metropolitan area, Nikia grew up in the Mt. Vernon area of Alexandria, Virginia. Since 2018, she has called Stafford, Virginia, home, where she resides with her husband, three children and beloved Yorkshire Terrier.

When asked about her favorite ocean animal, Nikia chooses the octopus, saying:
“I say that because I’m similar to an octopus—I have lots of arms in different places. I can adapt and be creative, and I’m a problem solver.”