Portia Bailey-Bernard, Esq. joined WM in 2023 as the Area General Manager for the Great Lakes Area (Michigan, Ohio, Indiana), with a focus on leading the Indianapolis Market as a member of the Area Leadership Team. In this role, Portia works closely with industry leaders across all lines of business - from recycling, modern landfill, and collection operations, in order to drive a more sustainable future in Indiana - one where materials are repurposed, energy is renewable, and communities are thriving.

Portia is an inspiration to all due to her unwavering commitment and passion to serving her community - through mentorship programs at WM, such as Emerging Leaders - to helping lead meaningful engagement to cultivate thriving communities across the Greater Indianapolis Area.

Before joining WM, Portia served as the Senior Vice President of Indianapolis Economic Development for the Indy Chamber, where she focused on facilitating long-term investments and providing Marion County and Indianapolis a competitive advantage. Prior to her work at the Indy Chamber, Portia served as an attorney at Kroger Gardis & Regis and also worked at Barnes & Thornburg where she advised businesses and local government entities concerning state and local government incentives for economic development projects. A true Hoosier and Indiana University alum for both her bachelor’s and law degree, Portia is a proud Varsity Letter winner for IU’s Women’s Track and Field team. Portia is married to Nolan, and has three children – Max, Bridgette, and Royce.