Women in Leadership Advisory Member

Nakia Hillsman

Active Term: 05/2025 - 05/2026

Areas of Expertise

• Pillars of Positivity
  
• Mentoring and Building a Culture of Mentorship
• Advocacy, Actions & Accountability
• Contract & Negotiation Skills
• Transformational Vs. Transactional Leadership
• Organizational Leadership & Cultural Diversity

Senior Business Analyst Manager—Houston Public Works—Houston Water Operations

City of Houston

For the last thirty years, Nakia Hillsman, has been a driving force behind the City of Houston. A Houston native, Ms. Hillsman began her career in local government as an Administrative Aide, and with a commitment to excellence, worked her way up the ranks. Today, she serves as the Senior Manager, leading change, project, people, and fiscal management.

A lifelong learner, Ms. Hillsman holds a bachelor's in Administrative Management from the University of Houston-Downtown and an MBA from Texas Southern University. Additionally, her educational arsenal includes a myriad of certifications ranging from data analytics and public management to executive leadership and project management. Over the years, Ms. Hillsman has utilized her diverse business acumen to lead multimillion-dollar revitalization projects for drainage improvements, permitting, asset management, and ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of potable water and the collection, treatment and disposal of wastewater.

Ms. Hillsman’s ability to create change extends far beyond government. Her passion for change management lends itself to civic duties as well. Whether serving as a board member for Child Advocates of Houston, a mentor for the National Black MBA Association’s Leaders of Tomorrow initiative, or a committee member for the National Forum for Black Public Administrators, Ms. Hillsman proactively seeks creative ways to remain deeply rooted in philanthropy. “To whom much is given, much will be required. My life is a culmination of many blessings, and it’s my responsibility to pay it forward. If there’s an opportunity to make a difference and impart diversity and inclusiveness, I’m there.”

In her spare time, Ms. Hillsman enjoys traveling, exercising, the arts, spending time with family, and uncovering her next educational endeavor. “I thrive in environments where learning is center stage. The more I learn and grow, the better equipped I am to serve my community.”

---