Jennifer M. McNelly, CAE, has more than 30 years of association, government, regulatory and business experience. She has served as the Society’s CEO since Aug. 16, 2018. She also serves as secretary and CEO of the ASSP Foundation, the Society's charitable arm, in her dual leadership role.
McNelly advances the organization’s mission to help its members and their employers create safe work environments worldwide through the prevention of injuries, illnesses and fatalities. She works with the Board of Directors and ASSP's professional staff to execute ASSP’s strategic plan for growth while addressing the evolving needs of 35,000 safety and health professionals around the globe.
McNelly’s leadership strengthens ASSP’s position as a leading voice while fostering a culture that is diverse, inclusive and advances equity across all aspects of the Society. She strives to create safe and welcoming environments.
McNelly previously served as president of The Manufacturing Institute, the nonprofit affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) and the national authority on attracting and developing world-class manufacturing talent. Over nine years with NAM, she was a national champion in changing the perception of manufacturing careers and re-establishing the United States as the global leader in technical education. McNelly launched the national STEP Ahead™ initiative to increase the engagement of women in manufacturing and co-founded National Manufacturing Day™ to engage the next generation workforce.
McNelly served at the U.S. Department of Labor as director of the Business Relations Group and administrator of its Office of Regional Innovation and Transformation. She has testified before Congress on manufacturing and workforce training and is past chair of the World Economic Forum Global Agenda Council on the Future of Manufacturing.
A certified association executive and University of Maryland College Park graduate, McNelly earned the Secretary of Labor’s Exceptional Achievement Award and was named among the 100 Women Leaders in STEM. She is a Gallup-certified CliftonStrengths coach who dedicates her volunteer time to supporting women veterans and youth, igniting their unique passions and strengths to propel their career advancement.