About Sara

My career has been built inside complex, highly matrixed organizations, where I’ve learned how to navigate ambiguity, identify white space, and create mutual value where others don’t see it. I’m a creative brand storyteller and commercial operator, focused on building and activating growth systems across partnerships, business development, sourcing, and commercialization. I thrive in entrepreneurial environments where I can quickly build trust, spot opportunity, and turn ideas into measurable revenue. I didn’t come from the typical pre-MBA path, and that’s exactly why my clients seek me out. Before Columbia Business School, I built my career in communications, marketing, and advertising, leading Business Development at Ogilvy. At 25, I was selected to lead the new business function in the Chicago office, becoming the youngest female to hold the role. I went on to generate $60M+ in revenue through global and national pitch wins including Coca-Cola, Nationwide, Sargento, and Mondelez. I was not a banker or consultant. I was an operator who knew how to craft the story and close. I’m now an Engagement Manager at Prophet, where I’ve built and scaled a commercial engine responsible for $50M+ in net new and reactivated revenue. I’ve led seller enablement initiatives, upskilled 20+ senior partners, and helped bring a new Private Capital Value Creation offering to market. My work sits at the intersection of narrative and execution, orchestrating teams, processes, and partnerships to drive growth. My experience also spans global, consumer-driven organizations like Shiseido and Gucci, and I’ve advised early-stage companies including LifeListener, HelloAva, HappyPop, and RYA on positioning, fundraising, and go-to-market strategy. Along the way, I’ve been recognized as a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree and selected for the Adweek Young CMO Mentorship Program. I’ve guest lectured at Columbia Business School, University of Michigan Ross School of Business, and NYU Stern School of Business, and currently serve on the Columbia Business School Young Alumni Board. I’m also involved with the Michael J. Fox Foundation Young Professionals Board. Getting into Columbia required me to translate a nontraditional background into a clear, compelling story. That process is now the foundation of how I coach.