Emily Laidlaw, PPA’s Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), helps clients turn ambitious ideas into public policy strategies that can succeed in the real world. Drawing on extensive experience across government, policy, regulation, advocacy, and implementation, she helps organizations navigate complex systems, build coalitions, and move from strategy to action. Before joining PPA, Ms. Laidlaw served as Deputy Director for Early Education at the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP). In that role, Ms. Laidlaw led statewide early education strategy, policy, and implementation, including Michigan’s PreK for All initiative, childcare affordability programs, early intervention services, and efforts to strengthen the early education workforce.
PPA likes to say “better public policy for a better world.” What does that mean to you?
Public policy shapes our everyday lives. Sometimes we see it clearly, and sometimes, when it works well, we hardly notice it at all. To me, better public policy reflects the needs and values of the people it touches. It starts with listening and understanding their experiences, then brings together evidence and creativity to find solutions.
What do you look forward to working on at PPA?
I’m looking forward to helping clients achieve their goals and create effective public policy. I’ve sat in many different seats, from nonprofit work and advocacy to government leadership and implementation, and I know what it takes to move from a good idea to something that works in practice. I’m excited to bring that experience together with PPA’s research expertise to help clients develop strategies, navigate challenges, and turn their goals into meaningful results.
As CSO, do you have a vision or a goal for that role that you would like to share?
I want to help PPA build on its strengths and think intentionally about what comes next. We have talented people and deep expertise. My goal is to connect those strengths to the challenges our clients face, build lasting relationships, and identify opportunities for PPA to make a difference. I also want to help create the conditions for our team to do their best work.
You have so much experience working in policy and in government. What have you learned from those experiences?
I’ve learned that solving tough policy challenges can start in many places. Sometimes it takes legislation, sometimes a change in how a program works, and sometimes bringing the right people together to find a path forward during implementation. Understanding the problem and knowing how to move things within a system are both essential. I’ve also learned how much relationships matter. You need people who understand the issue, people who know how the system works, and people who will tell you when something isn’t working. You have to stay curious, be willing to adjust, and keep the people impacted at the table and at the center of your decisions.
What inspires you?
People who see something that needs to change and decide to do something about it. I’ve worked with so many people who keep showing up and finding ways to move things forward, even when it’s difficult. That inspires me. My kids also keep me grounded, curious, and focused on the future we’re building.
What is your favorite thing about Michigan?
There’s so much to love: Vernors, Motown, and our state’s rich history. I love heading to northern Michigan and the UP for outdoor adventures. There’s nothing better than cross country skiing along a frozen, snow covered beach.
You shared that you love going to concerts. What were some of the best shows you have seen? And who do you dream of seeing live?
I recently saw Mumford & Sons and was blown away. Such a good show! Somehow, I’ve never seen Dave Matthews Band, so they’re at the top of my list.