Leadership at the intersection of security and trade

Leadership at the intersection of security and trade

From Leaders and Legends in Government by Federal News Network | Hubbard Radio

August 13, 2025 · 51 min

About this episode

Nazak Nikakhtar discusses her journey and insights on leadership at the intersection of security and trade.

On this episode of Leaders and Legends in Government , host Aileen Black welcomes the Honorable Nazak Nikakhtar, former assistant secretary at Commerce’s International Trade Administration, and former acting under secretary at the Bureau of Industry and Security. She is now a partner at Wiley Rein . Known for her ability to bridge national security, economic policy, and global trade, Nikakhtar shares her inspiring journey from immigrating to the United States as a child to shaping U.S. policy at the highest levels. In this wide-ranging conversation, she reflects on early career lessons, leading under pressure, balancing innovation with national security, and navigating the challenges of public service, private practice, and motherhood—all while offering practical leadership insights for the next generation. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

People in this episode

Host: Aileen Black

Guest: Nazak Nikakhtar

Topics covered

  • leadership
  • national security
  • economic policy
  • global trade
  • public service
  • innovation

Keywords

  • immigration
  • policy
  • motherhood
  • private practice

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Wiley Rein

Books & works: Leaders and Legends in Government

Places: the United States, U.S., California

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