Jess Koloini has been named president and CEO of the World Affairs Council of DFW effective Jan 5 2026. [Composite image; source: LinkedIn/DI Studio]

The World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth announced that Lockheed Martin exec Jess Koloini will take on the role of its president and chief executive officer on January 5, 2026.

Koloini has been at Lockheed more than nine years with extensive international leadership experience, most recently serving as director of business development for Lockheed’s Integrated Fighter Group. 

The move is something of a homecoming for Koloini.

“Jess brings a rare combination of institutional knowledge, global experience, and proven leadership that positions our Council for continued growth and impact,” Board Chairman Larry B. Pascal said in a statement. “Many will remember her from her six years at the council (2005-2011), where she rose from intern to vice president of programs. During that time, she was instrumental in facilitating the Fort Worth merger, growing our membership, managing special events, and expanding our annual programming to 100 events.”

The World Affairs Council of DFW said that Koloini’s work at Lockheed “has taken her around the globe, building lasting partnerships with governments, diplomats, and industries worldwide.”

The council said that Koloini’s extensive international experience at Lockheed will make her a strong leader, adding that Koloini “sees the council not just as a convener of conversation but as a driver of action and connection. Her vision, combined with her deep understanding of our mission and her extensive global network, makes her uniquely qualified to lead us into our next chapter.”

She has maintained her connection to the World Affairs Council as a member since 2005, and served on the WorldDenver board of directors when she lived in Colorado.

“Throughout her professional journey, Jess has remained grounded in the skills and values that define our council: diplomacy, education, collaboration, and mission-driven leadership,” Pascal said. “I’m confident that under her leadership, we’ll continue to connect North Texas with the world—and do so with even greater impact.”

Jim Falk will remain with the council through the transition. The council thanked him for his “valuable service” during the past year.

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