Nicki Scolaro Bland
Nicki Scolaro Bland is a seasoned executive, strategist, and co-founder of The (A)ction Imperative, a leadership movement dedicated to helping women and marginalized voices unmute their power and lead with courage and authenticity. With over 25 years of experience in Corporate America, she has built and led high-performing teams, managed billion-dollar portfolios, and driven growth in complex organizations including AOL, Northrop Grumman, Leonardo DRS, Peraton, and Serco North America. Her career reflects a consistent focus on operational excellence, strategic leadership, and creating environments where people are empowered to thrive.
As co-founder of The (A)ction Imperative, Nicki applies her deep expertise in executive leadership, human-centered strategy, and organizational transformation to equip leaders and teams to communicate with confidence, advocate for themselves, and disrupt systems of inequity. She is an executive strategist and movement architect, known for helping organizations cultivate cultures of courage, accountability, and trust, while coaching individuals to lead from their whole selves. Her work blends innovative leadership practices with practical tools to drive sustainable change and measurable impact.
Nicki holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Juris Doctor degree and believes that impactful leadership transcends titles and rigid career paths. Beyond her professional achievements, she is deeply committed to service, serving on boards and nonprofit organizations that advance the arts, human rights, and support for women and families. Her proudest role is being the mother of three daughters, who inspire her daily to model bold, truth-centered leadership and create space for others to do the same.
• Executive Presence: Tips for Women
• How to Resolve Conflict and Boost Productivity through Deep Listening
• Hoshin Planning
• Building Your Visibility as a Leader
• Creating Safe Spaces for Tough Conversations at Work
• 20 Habits of Executive Leadership
• Becoming an Impactful and Influential Leader
• The Six Morning Habits of High Performers
• Corporate Early Career Mentor
• Corporate Leadership Cohort
• VP Mentoring Program
• Women in Leadership Cohort
• George Mason University - BA
• George Mason University - Antonin Scalia Law School - JD
• Casa Brumar Foundation
• Washington National Opera
• Virginia Women and Family Support Center
• Peraton
• Leonardo DRS
• Northrop Grumman
• A Different Truth Podcast
• Be the Bridge
• Carried To Full Term
• Susan G. Komen
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a genuine passion for people and purpose, supported by a strong work ethic and a commitment to continuous growth. As I launch my own business in business development while continuing my work in new business, I rely on years of experience building teams, identifying opportunities, and helping organizations grow strategically. Mentorship is at the core of my work, particularly supporting women in discovering their strengths, defining their professional paths, and achieving success with confidence. I am driven by the belief that when individuals are empowered to align their careers with what truly inspires them, both people and organizations are positioned to thrive.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to find someone who truly inspires you and learn from their example. Surrounding myself with individuals whose values, work ethic, and leadership I admire has helped shape my own professional growth, challenged me to aim higher, and reminded me that success is not only about achievement but also about impact and integrity.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women entering this industry to believe in their value, speak up with confidence, and advocate for themselves. Your voice matters, your perspective is important, and empowerment begins when you trust your abilities, set clear boundaries, and actively participate in shaping your career path.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The greatest challenge and opportunity in my field right now is helping people succeed in an environment that is constantly changing. As industries evolve, there is a growing need to support individuals in identifying their strengths, developing confidence, and navigating their professional paths with clarity. This creates a powerful opportunity to mentor, build strong teams, and help organizations thrive by investing in people and empowering them to reach their full potential.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are authenticity, compassion, creativity, and family. I am deeply grounded by my love for my two daughters, who inspire me daily to lead with integrity and purpose. Creativity plays a meaningful role in my life through writing and painting, which allow me to reflect, express myself, and stay connected to what matters most. These values guide how I show up professionally by fostering genuine relationships, supporting others, and creating space for growth, balance, and fulfillment.