Yale School of Management - Martha N. Johnson '79

"Yale SOM was an eye-opener for me. I was introduced to the language and intricacies of group dynamics, of political systems, and of organizational behavior and I have hoarded those lessons over the years as my precious bank of leadership tricks. As I have moved among private sector companies, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies, those lessons have never let me down and, in fact, they have often given me an edge. Following along with the agenda of a meeting is one thing but mapping the power plays, role switches, sub-texts, boundary infringements, and human needs that are also part of the meeting adds up to much better decision making."

Martha N. Johnson was appointed administrator of general services on February 7, 2010.

Johnson has a record of leadership in both the public and private sectors. Johnson served as co-lead for the Obama Presidential Transition Agency Review Team for GSA. She served as GSA chief of staff from 1996 to 2001, under then-administrator David Barram. From 1993 to 1996, she was assistant deputy secretary at the Department of Commerce. Under the Clinton Administration, Johnson also served in the Office of Presidential Personnel.

Johnson also served as vice president of culture at Computer Sciences Corporation, helping to direct a change in corporate culture within the 90,000-person organization. Previously, she was vice president at SRA International, managing a strategic consulting group that served federal clients. Her career began in manufacturing at Cummins Engine Company.

Johnson received her BA from Oberlin College and MBA from Yale University.