Welcome Na’ama Alpert

When Na’ama Alpert arrived at a ghSMART-hosted leadership dinner in Los Angeles, she was balancing a full plate: work travel, caring for three young children, and wrapping up a demanding due diligence project. Despite the busy schedule, she decided to accept the invitation to join that evening, not knowing it would become a pivotal moment in her journey.

“I almost didn’t go,” she laughed. “But my husband encouraged me. And I’m so glad he did.”

We’re excited to welcome Na’ama Alpert to ghSMART as a Senior Principal. With a career that spans continents and industries, and a passion for both people and planet, Na’ama brings an incredible blend of strategic insight, operational experience, and warmth to our firm.

In our conversation with her, Na’ama shared how her global upbringing shaped her views on leadership, what ultimately drew her to ghSMART, and what life looks like when she’s not deep in an advisory project.  

A Global Path to Strategy and Impact

Na’ama’s journey began in Israel, but her perspective quickly broadened. In high school, she attended a two-year international academy in rural India, where students from around the world came together to study, volunteer, and think critically about global issues. The focus was on becoming agents of change. “We put into practice what we debated in the classroom – how we could make a positive impact on the world,” she shared. “That mindset stuck with me.”

After completing her civilian service in Israel, Na’ama pursued her undergraduate studies at the University of British Columbia in Canada, spent time in Sydney, Australia, and later earned an MBA from Columbia Business School. She began her career in consulting with BCG in Tel Aviv before exploring corporate strategy and operational roles. Her journey included joining a tech startup, later acquired by Salesforce, and working at Electrify America, Volkswagen’s subsidiary focused on speeding up electric vehicle adoption in the U.S.

During her MBA, Na'ama founded a startup for an energy-saving consumer product, secured a patent, and traveled to China for prototype development before the pandemic brought that chapter to a close.

Eventually, Na’ama returned to consulting as an Engagement Manager at McKinsey. “I enjoyed the variety of topics and the opportunity to work across many industries,” she explained. “At that stage in my life, it offered a professional path that aligned with both my career goals and personal priorities.”

Throughout her career, one theme remained constant: curiosity. “I like understanding how things work and connecting the dots,” she said. “That curiosity drives me.”

A Serendipitous Dinner and a New Chapter

That leadership dinner in Los Angeles, hosted by ghSMART team members including founder Geoff Smart, was Na’ama’s first real introduction to the firm. “It was very thoughtful,” she said. “From the conversation topics to the guest list, everyone I met was smart, kind, and intentional.”

More than that, the evening shifted something for her. “It changed my view of what consulting could be,” she said. “Geoff’s palpable enthusiasm and earnestness resonated and made me curious.”

After the event, she reached out to former McKinsey colleagues and current ghSMART advisors to learn more. “They were all open, warm, and candid. There was a generosity of time and spirit that made me think this could be a career home.”

What ultimately drew her in was a combination of culture, lifestyle, and impact. “At ghSMART, I feel like I don’t have to choose between advancing my career and being the kind of mother I want to be. I can stay fully engaged professionally while still being present for my family.”

Even within her first few weeks, the promise of meaningful work proved true. “From day one, you’re in the room with senior leaders, engaging in conversations about their top priorities.”

Finding Balance and Community

Na’ama lives in Los Angeles, close to her husband’s family. “I love it here. We’re part of a large family, and it’s hard to beat the weather, the food, the views,” she said, tilting her screen during our conversation to show off a perfectly sunny Southern California landscape. “It reminds me of where I grew up.”

Though much of her time outside work is devoted to her three kids, ages four, two and a half, and one and a half, she still finds moments to reconnect with her passions. “I enjoy hiking and being outdoors, it’s deeply energizing for me. And I love the culture and creativity you see here, showcasing LA’s take on design. We’re lucky to have terrific museums, galleries, and gardens around.” Her nearby favorites include The Huntington, LACMA, and The Hammer.

She also values the local ghSMART community. “The SoCal group is amazing; they’ve all been welcoming. I’m looking forward to spending time with more of the team. It’s rare to have a local hub like this at a remote firm.”

Looking Ahead

When asked about her favorite experience at ghSMART so far, Na’ama highlighted the recent firm-wide Summit. “Meeting everyone in person and hearing their perspectives on the work and our direction was inspiring. We jumped right into the most interesting topics.”

While her journey here began with a single RSVP, Na’ama’s path to ghSMART reflects something much deeper: a drive to make an impact, a commitment to personal growth, and a thoughtful approach to building both a career and a life. We’re lucky to have her on the team.

Please join us in giving Na’ama Alpert a warm welcome. You can learn more about her here.