Small Business Administration Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Small Business Administration has 10 executives leading key functions including operations, information technology, and finance.

Driven by a commitment to economic resilience, Small Business Administration supports entrepreneurship and small business development nationwide through counseling, financial assistance, and advocacy, fostering a robust ecosystem for ventures to launch and grow.

Leadership Roles at Small Business Administration

  • Deputy Chief Financial Officer - Deborah Chen
  • Chief Operating Officer - Wilson Li
  • President - James Soufleris
  • President - Jean-Paul Haessig
  • President - Pierre Baudry
  • Chief Information Officer - Reid H.
  • Chief of Staff - Wesley Coopersmith
  • Chief Information Officer, Dcio, Office of - Douglas Robertson
  • Chief Information Officer, Office of the CIO - Hartley Caldwell
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Benjamin Grayson
  • Deborah Chen - Deputy Chief Financial Officer

    Deborah Chen, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Small Business Administration, assists in overseeing the agency's financial operations and fiscal strategy. This executive function is crucial for ensuring the responsible management of funds allocated to support small business development, loan guarantee programs, and disaster recovery efforts. Deborah Chen contributes to the development and implementation of financial policies that promote transparency and accountability. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer plays a vital role in financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation to maximize the impact of the agency's programs. By ensuring sound financial stewardship, Deborah Chen directly supports the Small Business Administration's ability to provide essential capital and services to entrepreneurs nationwide. This leadership ensures the agency's financial health and operational sustainability.

    Wilson Li - Chief Operating Officer

    Wilson Li, the Chief Operating Officer at Small Business Administration, directs the agency's operational framework and execution of its core mission. Overseeing daily activities, Wilson Li ensures the efficient delivery of comprehensive counseling, financial assistance programs, and advocacy initiatives that bolster small business development nationwide. This leadership role involves optimizing internal processes to enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of resources for entrepreneurs. By streamlining operations, Wilson Li directly supports the agency's goal of strengthening the small business ecosystem. The Chief Operating Officer's focus remains on driving operational excellence to empower small businesses in launching, growing, and sustaining their ventures across the United States. This includes managing the logistical aspects of disaster response and recovery efforts, ensuring timely support to affected communities.

    James Soufleris - President

    James Soufleris, the President at Small Business Administration, leads the strategic vision and overall direction of the agency's operations. This executive role is paramount in guiding the Small Business Administration's efforts to foster entrepreneurship and support small business growth across the nation. James Soufleris oversees the implementation of comprehensive counseling, financial assistance, and advocacy initiatives designed to empower entrepreneurs. The President is responsible for ensuring that the agency effectively addresses the diverse needs of small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. By championing the agency's mission, James Soufleris directly contributes to strengthening the small business ecosystem and facilitating access to critical resources. This leadership ensures the organization remains a vital partner in economic development and resilience.

    Jean-Paul Haessig - President

    Jean-Paul Haessig, the President at Small Business Administration, directs the agency's strategic initiatives aimed at bolstering small business development and entrepreneurship. This leadership position is central to advancing the Small Business Administration's commitment to providing entrepreneurs with essential resources, including counseling, financial aid, and advocacy. Jean-Paul Haessig oversees the execution of programs designed to support businesses in launching, growing, and sustaining their operations. The President ensures that the agency's services are accessible and effective for a wide range of business owners nationwide. By driving forward key strategies, Jean-Paul Haessig directly contributes to strengthening the national small business ecosystem and promoting economic resilience. This role is critical in navigating the complexities of supporting diverse entrepreneurial ventures.
    Jean-Paul Haessig

    Pierre Baudry - President

    Pierre Baudry, the President at Small Business Administration, spearheads the agency's mission to support and advocate for small businesses and entrepreneurs. This executive leadership role is focused on enhancing the accessibility and impact of the Small Business Administration's comprehensive suite of services, including business counseling, financial assistance, and contracting opportunities. Pierre Baudry oversees the strategic direction for programs that enable small businesses to launch, grow, and thrive across the United States. The President is dedicated to fostering an environment where entrepreneurs have the necessary resources to succeed and contribute to economic vitality. By championing these efforts, Pierre Baudry directly strengthens the small business ecosystem and promotes economic resilience. This leadership ensures the agency remains a pivotal force in supporting national economic development.

    Reid H. - Chief Information Officer

    Reid H., the Chief Information Officer at Small Business Administration, architects and oversees the agency's technology strategy and infrastructure. This critical role ensures that robust, secure, and scalable information systems support the Small Business Administration's mission of fostering entrepreneurship and small business development. Reid H. drives the implementation of digital solutions that enhance access to counseling, financial assistance, and advocacy programs for businesses nationwide. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include managing data security, promoting technological innovation, and ensuring the reliability of IT services that underpin the agency's operations. By advancing the technological capabilities, Reid H. directly contributes to the agency's ability to serve a diverse range of entrepreneurs and facilitate their growth. This leadership ensures the agency remains at the forefront of digital service delivery.

    Wesley Coopersmith - Chief of Staff

    Wesley Coopersmith, the Chief of Staff at Small Business Administration, manages the strategic alignment and operational efficiency of the executive office. This position involves coordinating key initiatives, facilitating communication across departments, and ensuring the effective execution of the agency's directives. Wesley Coopersmith supports the leadership team by streamlining workflows and prioritizing critical projects that advance small business development and support. The Chief of Staff plays a pivotal role in translating the agency's mission into actionable plans and ensuring resources are allocated effectively. By overseeing the administrative and strategic functions of the executive suite, Wesley Coopersmith directly contributes to the agency's ability to provide comprehensive counseling, financial assistance, and advocacy. This role is central to maintaining organizational coherence and driving forward the Small Business Administration's commitment to entrepreneurs.

    Douglas Robertson - Chief Information Officer, Dcio, Office of

    Douglas Robertson, the Chief Information Officer, Dcio, Office of at Small Business Administration, provides critical leadership in managing the agency's information technology landscape. This role focuses on enhancing the technological infrastructure that supports small business development and financial assistance programs nationwide. Douglas Robertson oversees the implementation of advanced IT solutions designed to improve service delivery and operational efficiency for entrepreneurs. The Chief Information Officer, Dcio, Office of ensures that technology initiatives align with the agency's strategic goals, promoting innovation and security across all digital platforms. By driving technological advancements, Douglas Robertson directly supports the Small Business Administration's mission to empower businesses and foster economic resilience. This leadership ensures the agency's IT systems are robust, secure, and capable of meeting the evolving needs of small businesses.
    Douglas Robertson

    Hartley Caldwell - Chief Information Officer, Office of the CIO

    Hartley Caldwell, the Chief Information Officer, Office of the CIO at Small Business Administration, leads the strategic direction and operational management of the agency's information technology services. This executive function is vital for ensuring that technology effectively supports the Small Business Administration's mandate to foster entrepreneurship and provide essential resources to small businesses across the nation. Hartley Caldwell oversees the development and deployment of IT systems that facilitate access to counseling, loan programs, and advocacy initiatives. The Chief Information Officer, Office of the CIO is responsible for maintaining the integrity, security, and performance of the agency's technological infrastructure. By driving technological innovation and operational excellence, Hartley Caldwell directly contributes to the agency's capacity to serve entrepreneurs and promote economic growth. This leadership ensures the agency's digital capabilities remain advanced and responsive to market needs.

    Benjamin Grayson - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Benjamin Grayson, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Small Business Administration, supports the Chief of Staff in managing the strategic operations and administrative functions of the executive office. This role involves assisting in the coordination of critical initiatives and ensuring seamless communication across various departments to advance the agency's mission. Benjamin Grayson contributes to the effective implementation of directives and the prioritization of projects that enhance small business development and support. The Deputy Chief of Staff plays a key part in translating the agency's overarching goals into tangible operational outcomes. By reinforcing the strategic planning and execution processes, Benjamin Grayson directly supports the Small Business Administration's commitment to providing entrepreneurs with necessary resources and advocacy. This position is integral to maintaining organizational momentum and operational clarity.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Small Business Administration Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Small Business Administration?
    Small Business Administration is led by Deborah Chen (Deputy Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Wilson Li (Chief Operating Officer) and James Soufleris (President).
    Who is part of Small Business Administration’s executive team?
    The executive team of Small Business Administration includes leaders such as Deborah Chen (Deputy Chief Financial Officer), Wilson Li (Chief Operating Officer), James Soufleris (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Small Business Administration have?
    Small Business Administration has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Small Business Administration’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Small Business Administration includes roles such as Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, President, President.