JUSTIN VELEZ-HAGAN (MBA, Ph.D.)

Senior executive & Policy Leader | Economist | Veteran | Author

An economist and independent policy and capital markets advisor, Dr. Justin Vélez-Hagan advises public- and private-sector leaders on macroeconomic strategy, fiscal policy, and investment decision-making. He previously served as Deputy Chief of Staff and Senior Economic Advisor to Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, where he helped oversee statewide operations, guided the administration of the Commonwealth’s $87+ billion budget, and contributed to the development of Virginia’s long-term economic strategy.

In that capacity, he applied deep expertise in macroeconomic analysis and executive leadership to coordinate across agencies and departments, align gubernatorial policy priorities with operational execution, and provide strategic counsel to senior leadership. His work informed capital-attraction and investment strategies, workforce and talent initiatives, and regulatory reforms designed to strengthen competitiveness, improve efficiency, and support economic development across multiple high-value sectors.

An executive recognized for bridging private enterprise and public policy, Dr. Vélez-Hagan specializes in translating complex economic data into actionable strategies that attract capital, foster innovation, and advance long-term development objectives. He has worked extensively with global corporations, high-growth startups, and government leaders to design and implement initiatives that align fiscal policy, infrastructure development, and regulatory reform with market realities—often reducing barriers to entry while accelerating investment timelines.

In addition to his government role, he serves as Managing Partner and Chief Investment Advisor for Solid G Holdings, overseeing investments across healthcare, advanced robotics, logistics, and communications. He continues to advise as President of the board for Macro Policy Advisors — a firm he founded to produce applied economic research and strategic guidance for Fortune 500 companies, industry associations, and policymakers — and is an adjunct professor of finance at Marymount University.

Dr. Vélez-Hagan is the author of The Common Sense behind Basic Economics (2015), The Paradox of Fiscal Austerity (2019), and the forthcoming Capitol Gains (2026). His analysis and commentary have been featured in Forbes, Fox News, Politico, The Hill, and CNBC, and he has appeared on BBC World, Fox Business, and NPR. He has presented economic research to congressional committees, federal agencies, and national regulators, as well as lectured at universities nationwide.

Previously, he founded The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce, facilitating over $1.5 billion in corporate capital investments and securing millions in financing for small businesses. He has also invested in and advised companies in healthcare and specialized manufacturing, served as an adjunct professor of finance and economics, and contributed to boards including the National Military Family Association, American Latino Veterans Association, and the Boy Scouts of America National Capital Area Council. In 2022, he was appointed to Virginia’s Joint Advisory Board of Economists, serving until 2024 when he transitioned to his current role.

Dr. Vélez-Hagan earned his Ph.D. in Economic Policy from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County; his MBA from Arizona State University; and his BS in Finance from the University of Louisville. A combat veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan (Air Force) and a current officer in the U.S. Army Reserve, as well as a devoted husband and father of three.

Short Bio:

Dr. Justin Vélez-Hagan (MBA, Ph.D.) is an economist and independent policy and capital markets advisor to public- and private-sector leaders. He previously served as Deputy Chief of Staff and Senior Economic Advisor to Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, helping oversee statewide operations and contribute to management of the Commonwealth’s $87+ billion budget. His work focuses on macroeconomic strategy, capital formation, and policies that enhance competitiveness and long-term growth. He is also Managing Partner of Solid G Holdings, President of Macro Policy Advisors, and an adjunct professor of finance.

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