Melissa Benn

Melissa Benn is currently the Chief of Staff at Starlight, focusing on ensuring equitable access to financial assistance. With extensive experience in business development, operations, and strategy, they have held significant roles such as COO at Pioneer, where they facilitated over $186M in non-dilutive funding for climate tech innovators. Previously, Melissa served as a Senior Program Analyst at the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World and has consulted on various strategic initiatives, promoting sustainable practices and innovation in both the public and private sectors. They are also an Arlington County Commissioner for the Climate Change, Environment, and Energy Board, committed to shaping a greener future. Melissa holds multiple degrees, including an MBA from the University of Oxford.