The Honorable Althea (“Allie”) Coetzee Leslie, a distinguished graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy in 1985, brings over 36 years of exemplary service and leadership to the forefront of her career. Rising through the ranks, Allie retired from the Navy in 2017 as a 2-Star Rear Admiral, marking the culmination of a stellar military journey.
Post-military service, Allie seamlessly transitioned into the private sector and the Navy Reserve in 1993, showcasing her adaptability and strategic mindset. Her civilian endeavors have traversed the public sector, including municipal, state, and federal government agencies, and significant roles within the Department of Defense. In the private sector, Allie’s expertise spans retail distribution, contracting, and medical device manufacturing. Notably, from 2005 to 2010, she successfully steered her own small business.
Returning to active duty in 2011, Allie took on pivotal acquisition leadership roles at the Pentagon. From Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy to Chief of Staff to the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics (AT&L), her impact reverberated across various critical functions. As Chief of Staff, Allie adeptly facilitated the Under Secretary’s leadership of AT&L, overseeing numerous offices and defense agencies.
Following her distinguished military career, Allie was confirmed by the U.S. Senate in 2017 and served as Deputy Administrator in the U.S. Small Business Administration until 2018. In this capacity, she championed the causes of entrepreneurs and small business owners, optimizing the SBA’s resources to foster the growth of small businesses.
In 2018, leveraging her diverse experiences, Allie established a consulting firm committed to delivering strategic solutions with integrity, accountability, and competence. Simultaneously, she joined Health Supply U.S. in 2021 as Chief Contracting Officer, contributing to reshoring U.S. manufacturing in critical supply chains.
Allie Coetzee Leslies’ trajectory is marked by resilience, strategic acumen, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Her wealth of experience in uniform and the private sector positions her as a sought-after professional dedicated to driving success and fostering growth.
