Winn Decker

About Winn Decker

I am a strategic leader at the intersection of policy, government relations, and program management, with a proven record of designing and implementing initiatives that drive measurable results.Across my career, I have worked with governors, state leaders, institutions, and national organizations to translate complex policy goals into actionable programs that expand opportunity and deliver real-world impact. I specialize in building and managing large-scale partnerships, advancing public policy objectives, and creating scalable strategies that align stakeholders, data, and execution.My expertise includes policy diffusion, government affairs, strategic planning, higher education access, and workforce development. I have successfully led multi-state initiatives, negotiated cross-sector collaborations, and navigated complex public affairs landscapes to help organizations achieve their mission.I bring a results-oriented approach grounded in strong relationship management, data-driven decision making, and a commitment to equitable outcomes. I thrive in roles where strategy meets execution, where the ability to see the big picture and deliver tangible outcomes is critical to success.If you are seeking a leader who can connect vision to action and build programs that endure, I welcome the opportunity to connect.

Experience

1. Founder

   W Decker Strategies

   Aug 2023 — Present · Raleigh, NC, US

   Lead a consulting practice supporting public-sector, education, and nonprofit organizations on workforce development, education policy, and technology-enabled strategy. Work includes advising leaders on aligning education systems with labor market needs; facilitating strategic planning and stakeholder engagement with state and local officials; and producing data-informed analyses to support policy and operational decision-making. Provide guidance on the responsible use of AI tools to improve productivity and organizational effectiveness, conduct policy research in public budgeting and economic development, and manage long-term client partnerships while expanding the firm’s market presence.

Education

• Dyersburg High School

  High School

  2007 — 2011

• North Carolina State University

  Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Public Administration

  2017 — 2021

• North Carolina State University

  Master’s Degree, Higher Education/Higher Education Administration

  2015 — 2017

• Rhodes College

  Bachelor’s Degree, Chemistry

  2011 — 2015