The success of a consulting business hinges greatly upon the vision, leadership, and strategic acumen of its CEO. A CEO plays a pivotal role in steering the company towards its goals, fostering innovation, nurturing talent, and ensuring client satisfaction. Their ability to anticipate market trends, adapt to changing landscapes, and make informed decisions is crucial in maintaining a competitive edge in the consulting industry.

Ursula Keller, CEO of Manari Consulting, exemplifies these qualities with her rich and diverse background in management consulting. With a journey characterized by navigating through various industry landscapes, Ursula has honed her skills in business operations, strategy development, and effective leadership. Her experience spans across sectors such as finance, technology, healthcare, and even diplomatic environments.

Prior to her role at Manari Consulting, Ursula had the privilege of working at the Swiss Embassy in Berlin. This unique experience provided her with a profound understanding of effective communication strategies, as she learned to navigate through different cultural perspectives and align diverse stakeholders towards common objectives. This diplomatic exposure enriched her ability to approach challenges with diplomacy and tact, skills that seamlessly integrated into her consulting repertoire.

Ursula Keller's multifaceted expertise, combined with her strategic vision and commitment to excellence, has been instrumental in driving the success of Manari Consulting. Under her leadership, the firm has flourished, delivering exceptional results for clients across various industries and solidifying its reputation as a trusted partner in the consulting realm. Let’s hear more.

Guide us through your early years. What were some significant early influences that shaped your character?

During my formative years in Switzerland, my upbringing was heavily influenced by my family's strong work ethic. Raised by parents who embodied resilience and determination, they embarked on the entrepreneurial path while also prioritizing family life. Observing their unwavering commitment to both their business endeavors and raising children instilled within me a deep-seated appreciation for hard work, perseverance, and the value of continual self-improvement.

"My ability to combine strategic knowledge & data in a way that promotes all-encompassing healthcare solutions is, i believe, my greatest strength"

Furthermore, books played a significant role in shaping my worldview during this period. Whether immersing myself in educational texts to expand my knowledge or escaping into the captivating narratives of fiction, books served as gateways to boundless possibilities and endless exploration, providing both intellectual stimulation and a means of retreat.

Introduce us to Manari Consulting. Tell us about the various responsibilities you shoulder as the company’s CEO.

As a seasoned management consultant, I have honed expertise across diverse sectors, specializing in problem-solving, value creation, and fostering lasting impact. At Manari Consulting, our focus spans classical management consulting services, with a particular emphasis on healthcare optimization and financial project management. In healthcare, I collaborate with providers to streamline processes and implement Lean Management principles, while also offering support in hospital planning for enhanced patient satisfaction and operational efficiency. In the financial sector, I oversee various initiatives, from strategy development within private banking to IT infrastructure reviews for investment management firms. As CEO, my role is multifaceted, drawing upon my background in International Affairs to provide holistic solutions. Leveraging a partner network, we ensure comprehensive support tailored to each client's needs, exemplifying our commitment to excellence and client satisfaction.

A business leader’s journey is replete with challenges. Throw some light on the major challenges you encounter in your current role? How do you overcome the said roadblocks?

In my current role as CEO, I encounter a myriad of challenges that demand strategic navigation and resilience. These challenges span from leading organizational changes within projects to managing through obstacles and garnering support from project members. One major hurdle lies in maintaining focus and productivity amidst a multitude of tasks and concerns, often leading to feelings of inefficiency. To address this, I employ clear timelines, project milestones, and prioritized to-do lists to stay on track.

Another challenge revolves around achieving a healthy work-life balance, particularly when projects heavily rely on my involvement. Overcoming this obstacle involves scheduling designated free time and delegating responsibilities effectively. By entrusting capable team members with appropriate tasks, I create space to focus on strategic initiatives while also fostering professional growth within the organization. Additionally, I emphasize the importance of taking breaks to recharge, e.g. by scheduling regular exercise sessions over lunch.

Additionally, the proliferation of meetings can impede productive work time. To mitigate this, I selectively accept meetings where my input is essential, opting for concise phone calls or emails otherwise, and prioritizing efficiency at all times.

To tackle these challenges effectively, proactive communication and resilience are key. I cultivate a network of talented professionals for support and guidance, while also investing in continuous learning and development to adapt to evolving circumstances and maintain a pragmatic approach to problem-solving.

Message for aspiring women leaders/entrepreneurs:

To all women aspiring to lead or embark on entrepreneurial journeys, trust in your capabilities, view challenges as avenues for growth, and relentlessly pursue your ambitions. Your distinct viewpoint enriches the global business arena. Take bold steps into leadership roles, and let your achievements fuel meaningful progress.

Ursula Keller, CEO, Manari Consulting

As the CEO of Manari Consulting, Ursula Keller holds a Bachelor's and Master's degree from the University of St. Gallen, with an exchange experience in Geneva. Complementing her academic credentials, she successfully completed the Certified Global Negotiator (CGN-HSG) program, tailored for seasoned executives seeking to enhance their negotiating prowess. Through this program, she gained insights into various negotiation approaches and techniques, equipping her to navigate complex and high-pressure situations adeptly. Ursula's commitment to continuous learning and professional development underscores her dedication to achieving excellence in her role as a business leader.