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.

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