Leadership
Laura Lombard, Founder & Principal
Laura Lombard is an international strategy executive with nearly two decades of experience helping companies, governments, and institutions navigate global opportunities.
As Director of International for the Kansas Department of Commerce, Laura led statewide efforts focused on foreign direct investment, international trade, global partnerships, and strategic market engagement. Her work has involved collaboration with global companies, government leaders, economic development organizations, and trade partners across North America, Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.
Throughout her career, Laura has worked at the intersection of international business, economic development, and public policy. Prior to joining the Kansas Department of Commerce, she served as President & CEO of Kansas Global Trade Services, helping companies expand into international markets and strengthen their global competitiveness. Earlier in her career, she worked with The Cohen Group in Washington, D.C., gaining experience in international business strategy, government relations, and global market engagement. The Cohen Group was founded by former U.S. Secretary of Defense William Cohen.
Laura has also played leadership roles in several national and international organizations. She served on the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Advisory Committee (ITAC-9) on Small, Minority, and Women-Led Businesses and as Vice Chair of the Mid-America District Export Council. She was also the founder of the Middle East & North Africa Consultants Association (MENACA), an organization established to strengthen professional collaboration and engagement across the MENA region.
Her experience spans sectors including aerospace, advanced manufacturing, energy, agriculture technology, food manufacturing, logistics, and emerging technologies. She has worked extensively with companies, governments, universities, and economic development organizations to build partnerships, attract investment, and support international growth.
Laura holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Kansas and a Master of Arts in International Relations and Economics from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS).
She is the Founder & Principal of Novaterra Global Strategy, where she advises companies, governments, and institutions on international expansion, foreign investment strategy, and global engagement.
Throughout her career, Laura has learned that successful international growth depends on more than information alone. It requires trusted relationships, sound judgment, and the ability to identify which opportunities are worth pursuing. That philosophy serves as the foundation of Novaterra Global Strategy.