The 2019 Women Leaders in Consulting: Sarah Katz

Sarah Katz went into investment banking straight out of school and within a year, she realized that she wanted to be more connected with the client. She was introduced to a start-up firm, Blue Stone International, that had the right blend of strategic finance, working with executives, and using technology to run various models, she says.

That entrance into advisory work led her all the way to where she is today— a Principal at Spaulding Ridge, where she leads the Advisory Practice, overseeing financials and operations. Katz has established herself as a leader in the technology industry, working with some of the most disruptive companies, both pre and post-IPO.

Her breadth of experience guiding the implementation of digital solutions by leveraging enterprise software, creating efficiencies with process optimization / reengineering and organizational changes gives her a unique perspective in advising both established and emerging companies. Katz takes a holistic approach to client services, regarded as a trusted advisor in each phase of engagement, from technology selection through execution. 

"The relationships that I am able to create with my clients and being exposed to different businesses around the world," she says. "Some of the companies that I work with are disrupting industries or even creating something that does not exist yet. Knowing that I am able to help scale or transform an organization with a digital approach is what drives me."

To that end, Katz says her greatest professional achievement thus far is being instrumental in helping to build Spaulding Ridge from the very beginning. "I decided to spend my time on market growth, creating new relationships, supporting my local clients, and building an advisory team," she says. "I was able to help grow our revenue by 10x since I joined in April 2018."  

And looking forward, Katz says she is excited to help grow Spaulding Ridge in new markets and continue to support clients as they continue their journey to transform to a digital platform. 

"I am also excited to help empower young women to be able to do something that they would never believe that they would be capable of," she says. "I am grateful to win this award because as part of SheDisrupts, I want to be able to show other young women to believe in yourself and don't wait to start doing what you love."

Her advice to other female consultants? Be curious and keep learning as much as you can. "Creating meaningful relationships are key with your team and client," she says.  

Q&a: What's the best advice—consulting or otherwise—you've ever received?

"The best advice that I received was from my father. When I was young, I tried to explain to my father that biology says boys are faster than girls. That's when he looked at me and said: 'run faster.' Even if biology might be right, this stuck with me. The point he was trying to make, and there were other examples similar to this, was to never accept anything or anyone that tells me that I am not able to do something. If I truly want it or believe in it then I need to go after it and do it!"