Laura Ballman

Laura Ballman brings a global perspective shaped by over 20 years of experience spanning four continents in business, intelligence, and media.

She currently serves as Vice President for Partnerships at Business Executives for National Security (BENS).

Prior to joining BENS, Laura worked as an independent consultant, providing business and geopolitical risk advisory services to clients such as the Federal Aviation Administration, the Cohen Group, and two tech startups.

Earlier in her career, Laura spent 17 years in government service as a U.S. intelligence officer, including multiple overseas assignments as a CIA Operations Officer. She later led a Counterintelligence Division for the Department of Energy and its National Laboratories Complex and established a strategic intelligence capability for the FBI’s Art Crime Team.

Laura began her professional journey as a journalist, reporting for leading outlets such as the Associated Press, CNN, The Economist Group, and others, both domestically and internationally.

She holds an MA in International Affairs from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs, an MA in Art Business from Sotheby’s Institute of Art, and a BA in History from the University of Minnesota.

A recognized expert in her field, Laura is a frequent guest commentator on cable news networks.