Her Story
About Nancy
Nancy Sechrest is a respected political consultant, lobbyist, and business development leader with more than three decades of experience navigating government relations, regulatory processes, and legislative strategy. She began her career in public service with the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, where she developed deep expertise in environmental regulation and compliance. After being elected president of the State Employees Association, Nancy transitioned into professional lobbying in 1988, building a reputation for her ability to understand complex policy issues and advocate effectively on behalf of organizations, businesses, and communities. She later founded Sechrest Consulting, a private practice based in Highland, Utah, where she continues to help clients successfully navigate government processes and achieve their strategic goals.
Through Sechrest Consulting, Nancy provides guidance on legislative affairs, regulatory compliance, planning, zoning, appropriations, and government strategy. Her specialized knowledge of environmental policy, state budgeting, and public-sector operations has enabled her to assist clients with complex projects across multiple industries, including energy, development, and community initiatives. She has built a broad network of relationships throughout government and industry, allowing her to connect clients with the resources and expertise needed to move projects forward. In addition to her consulting work, Nancy has contributed to her community through service on planning commissions and involvement with organizations focused on public needs and advocacy.
Nancy attributes her success to decades of experience, subject-matter expertise, strong relationships, and a willingness to step into leadership opportunities. She believes effective advocacy requires confidence, integrity, preparation, and the ability to clearly communicate a position while building trust with others. Throughout her career, she has encouraged women entering government affairs and consulting to be strategic, assertive, and willing to claim their place at the table. Beyond her professional achievements, Nancy values credibility, privacy, and maintaining balance between her work and personal life while continuing to make an impact through public service and thoughtful advocacy.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Nancy
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the combination of experience, expertise, and the relationships I have built throughout my career. My background in environmental regulation and state budgeting has provided me with valuable knowledge and perspective, while my professional network and ability to build influence have helped me create meaningful opportunities. I have also been willing to step into leadership roles when called upon, which has allowed me to continue growing and making an impact.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I received was the encouragement to step forward and embrace leadership opportunities. Early in my career, colleagues encouraged me to take on leadership roles and supported my ability to succeed. That confidence helped shape my professional path. I also learned an important business lesson: whenever you invest significant time or resources into a venture, make sure you have a meaningful voice in how it is managed and the direction it takes.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women is to be strategic, confident, and willing to advocate for themselves. Stand firmly behind your expertise, share your perspective, and do not be afraid to engage in important conversations or defend your ideas. Confidence and preparation are essential, and your voice deserves to be heard.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the challenges in my field is that it remains predominantly male, with relatively few women represented in government consulting. However, this also creates significant opportunities for women with strong expertise and leadership skills. Those who combine knowledge of environmental law, budgeting, and strategic decision-making can help guide major projects, build strong professional networks, and create new pathways for growth.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me are privacy, balance, credibility, integrity, and steadfast advocacy. I believe in maintaining clear boundaries between my professional and personal life while remaining committed to the people and causes I serve. Building trust through honesty, consistency, and standing firmly for what is right has been central to both my career and my personal life.
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