Sierra Hampton-Simmons serves as Vice President of Certifications and Learning Innovation at IMA (Institute of Management Accountants), where she oversees IMA's globally recognized certification programs, including the CMA® (Certified Management Accountant), along with modern learning experiences tied to a robust competency model. With over two decades of expertise in digital product development, workforce transformation, and certification innovation, Sierra leads strategic initiatives that have contributed to millions of professionals achieving certifications and advancing their careers.

Prior to joining IMA, Sierra served as Vice President of Certifications & Product Architecture at PMI (Project Management Institute), where she spearheaded groundbreaking innovations including the evolution of the PMP® certification and the launch of PMI Study Hall—an advanced learning platform leveraging cutting-edge digital tools. Her work earned recognition from Credly as one of its top issuers of digital badges. Earlier in her career, Sierra led Global Certifications at Cisco Systems, directing operations for industry-leading IT certification programs including CCNA and CCNP, and began her career at Citrix Education developing advanced curricula and certification programs.

Sierra is an influential voice in the certification and workforce development industries. She previously served as President of the Performance Testing Council and currently serves on the advisory committee for the Space Workforce Institute and is active with ANSI WorkCred. She is passionate about the intersection of workforce development and emerging industries such as AI, space, and high-tech fields, regularly engaging with professional audiences worldwide on the future of work, digital transformation, and innovations in certification.

Sierra holds a Bachelor of Science in Japanese with a concentration in International Business from Georgetown University and an MBA with a focus on Marketing from the University of Florida.