Meet Martha

Fifth Fundamental is founded and led by Martha E. Newton. Under President Donald J. Trump (45), Martha was appointed to the UN to serve as the Deputy Director-General for Policy of the ILO, the oldest and only tripartite (governments, employers and workers) organization within the UN system. Previously, she was appointed by President Trump to serve as the Deputy Under Secretary at the US Department of Labor, leading workforce development, employment and trade policies for domestic and global audiences.

Martha has developed cutting-edge policies and executed implementation strategies to respond to varying changes in the world of work for governments and trade associations. Fifth Fundamental’s broad network of experts has been developed from her expansive knowledge and 20 year practical experience on topics including employment strategies for emerging sectors, labor, trade and business resiliency. In addition to her vast experience on issues related to trade, occupational safety & health, and regulatory frameworks, Martha also has key experience on migration and the policy factors contributing to the issue— serving under President George W. Bush as the legal guardian for all unaccompanied alien children and the Director of Refugee Resettlement at the US Department of Health and Human Services.

Known globally as a key driver and decision maker of top global policy issues related to the world of work, Martha has also served as the “Sherpa” for G20, G7, and other international forums, providing influential guidance to world leaders on crucial topics pertaining to the global economy, including labor and employment, AI-driven economy, trade, and workforce challenges related to energy independence, including forced labor in critical mineral supply chains.

In addition, she has helmed multiple NGO’s around the globe and has led strategic partnership development for International Justice Mission and the Halifax International Security Forum. She began her career as the Chief of the Violent Crime Victims’ Assistance Division for the Illinois Attorney General.

In addition, Martha serves as a Cartier RedBox Me Luminary Thinker, a Brain Trust Advisor to The World in 2050 Think Tank/Do Tank, and an initial fundraiser/advisor for the Global War on Terror Memorial Foundation.

Martha started Fifth Fundamental to bring her energy and enthusiasm of translating world of work policy into successful action and results for clients. Fifth Fundamental can help companies make the business case that you CAN enhance productivity while improving conditions for workers and your company.