Beth Gellert, highly regarded in a more than 25-year professional career that includes work in accounting, finance, consumer products and nonprofit organizations — and key roles at KPMG and Levi’s — recently was named the new associate director for the Center for Women in Business at Rutgers Business School.
Gellert began her career as a certified public accountant at KPMG. Her subsequent experience in brand management at LeapFrog saw her spearhead the launch of the highly successful LittleTouch LeapPad franchise, a “Toy of the Year” winner that sold four million units in its first two years.
As director of global strategy at Levi Strauss & Co., Gellert led various strategic initiatives, including revolutionizing the company’s approach to innovation. More recently, through her own consulting firm, she has helped both startups and established companies develop and implement effective business plans and growth strategies.
“I am incredibly excited to join the CWIB team and contribute to its mission of removing barriers, building community and empowering women,” Gellert said. “I am passionate about advancing women and leveraging my strategy background to accelerate our impact.”
Lisa Kaplowitz, CWIB’s co-founder and executive director, called Gellert a seasoned strategy and marketing leader — and welcomed her to the group, as it celebrates its 5th anniversary. Kaplowitz said Gellert will be responsible for overseeing program development, fostering strategic partnerships, and driving the center’s growth initiatives.
“As we celebrate CWIB’s 5th anniversary, we are proud of our robust body of actionable research, impactful programming and thriving community of over 6,900 members dedicated to advancing women in business,” Kaplowitz said.
“We’ve seen firsthand the positive impact our work has had on women’s careers and the success of businesses. As we enter our next chapter, we are excited to expand our team and accelerate our mission. With Beth’s help, we look forward to partnering with more individuals and organizations to foster workplaces that work for everyone.”
Beyond her professional achievements, Gellert has a long-standing commitment to community engagement and mentorship. She has spent over a decade as a troop leader for Girl Scouts, fostering essential skills in self-reliance and financial literacy while also inspiring community leadership. Her volunteer work also includes advocating for greater female representation in politics, promoting interfaith inclusion, and leading various community fundraising efforts.
Gellert holds an undergraduate business degree from the Ross School at the University of Michigan and an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, where she was recognized as the “Top Marketing Student” in her graduating class.
