Speakers

As the founder and CEO of Colibri Business Development LLC, Ileana stands at the forefront of the energy sector’s evolution. Her firm is dedicated to crafting strategies that not only bolster the economic growth of host nations but also align with the global shift toward sustainable energy.

With a storied 24-year tenure at ExxonMobil, Ileana honed her expertise in the Global Procurement department, where she adeptly navigated service contract negotiations and executions across the company’s global operations. Her transition from ExxonMobil to an independent consultant marked a new chapter in her mission to drive change.

An esteemed Subject Matter Expert in international development, Ileana’s consultancy transcends mere advice; she is a catalyst for industrial policy reform, economic advancement, and skill development within the energy sector. Her innate ability to forge and nurture relationships has been the cornerstone of her career, enabling her to unite diverse stakeholders and foster enduring partnerships.

Ileana’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is evidenced by her past collaboration with WEConnect International and her ongoing advocacy for women’s economic empowerment. She firmly believes in the integration of women-owned businesses into the energy supply chain and actively mentors aspiring women entrepreneurs.

Her academic foundation is as diverse as her professional experience, with a BA in Languages and Business from Universidad Metropolitana, an MBA in International Development from Thunderbird School of Global Management, and executive education in Corporate Social Responsibility, Sustainability, and Economic Development from Harvard Kennedy School of Government.

A Venezuelan native, Ileana’s journey has taken her from her homeland to The Woodlands, TX, where she resides with her family and pets. Her global perspective is not just a professional asset but a personal passion, driving her to share best practices in international development and aid countries in transcending poverty and social hurdles.