Trade and International Affairs
Meet the Team
Gigi Lee
Chief of International Affairs
As the Chief of International Affairs for the City of Houston Mayor's Office, Gigi oversees Houston's global partnerships and international trade initiatives, positioning the city as a leading international hub. She also works to build partnerships with local chambers of commerce and community groups with business and cultural connections represented by Houston's diverse global population.
With over two decades of experience in public service and international engagement, she brings a wealth of expertise in diplomacy, trade relations, and cross-cultural collaboration.
Gigi has a strong track record of strengthening international ties, including her previous roles as Community Affairs Director for Texas Senate District 15 and with Houston's Aviation Department, where she played a key role in supporting the expansion of international air service. She has served under three former mayors and brings a wealth of experience to the current administration.
She is also the founder of the Asia Houston Network and a former president of the Korean American Chamber of Commerce, where she has been instrumental in promoting international business and cultural exchanges.
Her leadership also includes serving on the Mayor's Advisory Board for International Affairs and Development, where she helped shape Houston's global outreach for over a decade. Her dedication to building global bridges reflects her lifelong passion for international affairs and community development.
Originally from Seoul, South Korea, Gigi graduated from the University of Houston with a Spanish Literature degree and is a senior fellow of the American Leadership Forum (ALF).
Mazda Denon
Deputy Director of Trade & International Affairs
Mazda serves as a Global Trade Manager for the City of Houston Mayor’s Office of Trade and International Affairs. In his role, he manages global trade development efforts as well as engagement with foreign governments and international organizations with a focus on Africa, the Caribbean, Europe and Middle East. His duties extend to overseeing all diplomatic, business, and cultural exchanges between the City of Houston and these regions, managing office finances, planning and executing Mayoral Trade Missions, and organizing the Mayor’s international business advisory council.
Mazda is fluent in French and English. He holds two bachelor’s degrees in Accounting and Finances from the Higher Institute of Management (ISM – Dakar) and The American Intercontinental University.
Jessica Ngo
Chief of Protocol
As Chief of Protocol for the City of Houston, Jessica oversees matters regarding diplomatic protocol and cross-cultural exchanges including welcome Heads of State, Ministers, Ambassadors and all foreign dignitaries that visit Houston. She also serves as key advisor on international policy issues which may impact Houston and advises the Mayor and City Council in consular and dignitary activities, as well as outbound trade development missions. Jessica manages Houston's official partnerships and agreements, Sister Cities programs, development of global youth and international education initiatives, and international programs to achieve Houston’s diplomatic, civic and trade engagement goals. She has organized major events such as galas, summits, business forums, conferences, and diplomatic ceremonies that enrich Houston's economic, cultural, and educational landscape.
Prior to serving as Chief of Protocol, Jessica served as the Protocol and International Programs Manager for Mayor's Office of Trade and International Affairs. She graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Corporate Communications and is a certified Intercultural Etiquette and Protocol trainer and consultant. Her passion for cultural exchange and diplomacy is shared in her work with reputable organizations such as the Asia Society, UNICEF, Consulate, and multiple business and marketing firms. Jessica is fluent in English and Vietnamese.
José Carrillo
International Affairs Manager
As the International Affairs Associate, Jose works closely with the City’s Senior Consular & International Affairs Manager to help foster a strong relationship between the Consular Corps of Houston and the City of Houston. He also works closely with the City’s Protocol Manager by carrying out flag etiquette, protocol seating, and other key aspects of protocol in diplomacy.
Jose is the Co-Coordinator for the office’s internship program. He provides instruction and guidance to ensure the student’s internships are engaging and informative. Jose also oversees the office’s official correspondence by drafting letters for the Mayor to Ambassadors, Ministers, Consuls General, etc. Jose assists planning out the Mayor’s Consular Ball by serving as a point of contact for sponsors, the consular corps, and tracking sponsorship information.
He is a native Houstonian that graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and minor in Law, Policy, and Values. He has lived in Brazil and Canada. Jose speaks English, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, and French.
Contact MOTIA
Office of Trade and International Affairs901 Bagby, Fourth Floor
Houston, TX 77002
MOTIA Social Media
