Jessica Souder

Emerging and Defense Tech Innovation: AI, AI Security, Energy, and BioTech | MBA | Advisor | CIA Alum | AllTru

Washington DC-Baltimore Area

About

With over a decade of professional experience, I currently serve as Head of Government Strategy & GTM at TwelveLabs, leveraging my leadership, program management, and strategic planning skills to drive innovative solutions in the National Security, Defense, and government sectors. My mission aligns with empowering organizations to navigate complex challenges and unlock transformative opportunities in AI and emerging technologies. Passionate about bridging public and private sector innovation, I bring a unique perspective shaped by my advisory roles with defense tech startups and background as an intelligence officer. At TwelveLabs, I contribute to shaping and executing go-to-market strategies, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams to advance our offerings for government and national security stakeholders. Previously, I led AI Security for public sector clients at Palo Alto Networks post-acquisition of Protect AI, where I supported critical security needs with a focus on AI-driven solutions. My work has consistently emphasized fostering collaboration and delivering impactful results for cutting-edge technologies in high-stakes environments.

Experience

  • Head of Government Strategy & GTM at TwelveLabs
    2026 - Present · 7 mos

  • Advisor at Phasic Energy Co
    2024 - Present · 2 yrs 7 mos

    Advised Phasic through participation in NATO DIANA 2025 accelerator, fundraising, and early launch efforts.

  • Principal/Investor/Advisor at Thistle Innovation
    2024 - Present · 2 yrs 7 mos

    Advisor for defense tech and emerging technology companies across AI, energy, and biotech, supporting strategy development and Go To Market opportunities both in the US and with NATO allies. Scout and provide diligence support to defense venture capital. Angel investor. Advisor to NATO DIANA 2026 cohort.

  • AI Security Lead - Public Sector at Palo Alto Networks
    2025 - 2026 · 1 yr

    Led AI Security for public sector and national security customers following at Palo Alto Networks following the acquisition of Protect AI.

  • Protect AI (3 yrs 1 mo)
    • Director of Government & Defense
      2024 - 2025 · 1 yr

      Led public sector business development and sales and launched a successful government affairs strategy for a ground-breaking AI Security company from the founding (as an advisor) through acquisition by Palo Alto Networks.

    • Advisor
      2022 - 2024 · 2 yrs