Denise Johnson
Ms. Denise (Niecy) Johnson is a multifaceted professional with over 25 years of experience in executive administration, creative arts, and leadership support. Currently serving as Executive Assistant to the President at Experis US, she provides high-level administrative support, manages complex schedules, coordinates travel and special projects, and ensures seamless communication between leadership and internal and external stakeholders. Throughout her career, Denise has been recognized for her exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to foster a positive and productive office culture. Her dedication to excellence and service has earned her numerous accolades and longstanding professional relationships. Beyond her administrative expertise, Denise is a passionate about being creative. A poet, spoken word artist, writer, graphic designer, professional model, and instructor, she channels her artistic vision into projects that inspire and engage others. Her early training in visual communications and design, combined with her lifelong love of expression, allows her to integrate creativity and innovation into every role she undertakes. Denise’s unique blend of administrative precision and creative talent enables her to elevate teams, shape meaningful connections, and bring energy and authenticity to every environment she enters. Driven by faith, purpose, and a commitment to lifelong growth, Denise brings intention and mindfulness to both her professional and personal life. She is actively involved in community and organizational initiatives, from charity events and affinity groups to mentorship and cultural engagement. Whether leading teams, creating compelling content, or simply encouraging others to realize their potential, Denise embodies a philosophy of excellence, integrity, and service, making a lasting impact on those she works with and the communities she touches.
• ITT, Technical Institute, VA - AA
• Employee of the Quarter
• Red Hat Society
• Meals on Wheels
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the journey that shaped me the challenges that stretched me, the lessons that refined me, and the incredible people who poured into me along the way. I’m especially grateful for those who invested in me, my incredible family, whose love, prayers, and unwavering belief in me have carried me through every season. Their support, along with the mentors and friends who invested in me and walked beside me, strengthened my confidence and grounded my purpose. Every obstacle built resilience, every opportunity expanded my calling, and every connection added something meaningful to my growth. My path hasn’t been perfect, but it has been purposeful, and I honor everyone who helped me become who I am today.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received was to protect my space, because not everything deserves space in your spirit. I learned that my health and my family must remain my true priorities, no matter how demanding the work becomes. I was also taught the importance of staying connected, building genuine relationships and nurturing them over time because community and support carry you further than ambition alone.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to keep moving forward, even when the path feels unfamiliar, and to trust the strength of your own voice. As you grow, reach back and lift others with you, helping them recognize their worth creates a ripple far beyond your role. Cultivate a quiet confidence that doesn’t need to announce itself but shows up through consistency, preparation, and grace under pressure, and above all, protect your peace and your boundaries, because they are the foundation that allows you to thrive, lead, and stay true to who you are.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as a woman of color is navigating barriers that weren’t always visible but were deeply felt, from being underestimated to having to prove my credibility in ways others didn’t. Yet even with those obstacles, I’ve genuinely loved my career and the purpose it’s given me. Those same challenges have sharpened my voice, strengthened my resilience, and opened doors for me to advocate for equity, representation, and belonging. They’ve also created opportunities to mentor others, influence culture, and help shape a path where the next generation doesn’t have to fight the same battles alone.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me both professionally and personally are peace, open communication, and respect. These principles shape how I show up in every space I enter.
Peace keeps me centered and intentional, helping me move through life without allowing chaos to dictate my choices. Open communication builds clarity and trust, creating room for honesty that is delivered with care and understanding. Respect anchors everything, reminding me to honor others and myself with dignity, healthy boundaries, and compassion. Together, these values are the foundation of how I lead, connect, and serve.