Laura Ipsen

Smart Grid is a Cisco project that aims to enable connected utilities to supply electricity in a more efficient and sustainable way, allowing consumers to gain better efficiency and control of their energy consumption. In her role as Senior Vice President and General Manager, Laura Ipsen shapes Cisco's Smart Grid vision and strategy, builds an extensive product and services portfolio, and manages a strategic plan for communicating to Cisco customers, partners, shareholders, and employees.

Ipsen is also the co-chair of Cisco's EcoBoard, which leads Cisco's comprehensive "green" strategy related to the use of information technology to achieve a positive impact on the environment and climate change. In 2008, Ipsen received the Women Making History award from U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer for her work on environmental issues. In addition, Ipsen leads Cisco's Women's Advisory Group, which identifies and recommends gender-focused strategies as part of Cisco's Inclusion and Diversity Council.

Previously, Ipsen established and managed Global Policy and Government Affairs division for Cisco and was responsible for developing Cisco's public policy agenda and advancing governmental policies in support of broadband and IP-based technologies.

Ipsen serves on the boards of the GridWise Alliance, the Public Affairs Council, One Economy Corporation, and the Technology Board for Pacific Research Institute. Ipsen is the past president and chair of the board of the Organization of Women in International Trade and the past chair of the Board of Directors for the Information Technology Industry Council.

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