Her Story
About Dee
Dee Jones, MBA, is a seasoned senior principal consultant and independent advisor with extensive expertise in operational excellence, organizational design, and relationship building across the public and private sectors. Over her career, she has supported state government agencies, healthcare organizations, and private enterprises, helping them navigate complex operational challenges, manage large-scale projects, and implement strategic initiatives. Dee is passionate about mentoring and developing teams, combining data-driven solutions with a consultative, people-centered approach to achieve sustainable results.
Dee’s professional journey spans more than two decades, beginning in financial analysis and business unit control at Siemens Energy and Automation and later transitioning to leadership roles in the cable and telecommunications industry with Scripps Howard, MediaOne, Comcast, and AT&T. She moved into state government leadership, serving as Chief Operating Officer in the North Carolina Department of Administration, leading startup initiatives in Health Benefits, and directing the North Carolina State Health Plan. Her experience also includes strategic consulting engagements with CGI and her current independent consulting firm, DCJ Strategic Consulting, where she provides guidance on operational excellence, board support, and organizational design.
Dee holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Accounting and Business Management from North Carolina State University and an MBA with an accounting concentration from the University of Phoenix. She actively serves on multiple boards dedicated to improving public-sector healthcare and mentoring emerging leaders. Throughout her career, Dee has been recognized for her excellence in leadership, operational strategy, and public service, exemplifying a service-driven approach that prioritizes meaningful impact, mentorship, and collaborative problem-solving.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dee
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to nearly 40 years of diverse experience, learning from practical challenges, and a persistent commitment to helping, mentoring, and supporting others throughout my career. Networking and a focus on service have also been key to the opportunities I’ve been able to pursue.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is that a career doesn’t have to be a straight ladder—it can be a jungle gym. This perspective helped me embrace a non-linear path and pursue roles that I love while maintaining flexibility and control over my schedule.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to pursue a career you love and find fulfilling. Seek mentors, support one another, embrace persistence, don’t fear failure, and focus on meaningful service rather than trying to fit in by “being one of the boys.”
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest opportunities in my field include strengthening public-sector healthcare through initiatives like Centers of Excellence. Key challenges involve managing complex state-government processes and RFPs, as well as balancing the demands of serving multiple clients independently.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are service to others, mentorship, and integrity, both in my work and personal life. I also deeply value family time, especially caring for and spending time with my mom.
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