Kevin Steinberg

CEO, Ascent Leadership Networks

Kevin Steinberg is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ascent Leadership Networks. He brings over 25 years of experience advising global CEOs and other leaders and deep expertise in global industry trends at the intersection of investment, social impact and stakeholder engagement.

Prior to launching Ascent, Kevin served as the Global Chief Operating Officer for Spencer Stuart’s Leadership Advisory Services group. There, he was responsible for leading efforts supporting the firm’s portfolio of advisory services, which includes executive assessment, CEO succession planning, board effectiveness, and other leadership & culture-related consulting.

Previously, Kevin served as the President of Purpose, a strategic consultancy and digital agency focused on stakeholder engagement and social impact. There he led numerous projects for corporate and non-profit companies building movements and new power models to tackle the world’s biggest problems.

Kevin was the Managing Director & Chief Operating Officer of the World Economic Forum USA, the North American affiliate of the WEF. During his tenure, he guided the organization from its inception to engagement with over 1000 global companies, and oversaw numerous active initiatives, projects and global events. He also held a number of roles in Switzerland, including leading the foundation's relationship management function, its Centre for Global Industries, and its Risk Response Network.

He began his career spending ten years with McKinsey & Company, where he advised wholesale financial institutions on strategy and change management. He sits on several additional for-profit and nonprofit boards, including Claridge, Inc., the Jewish Arts Collaborative, and Opportunity Network.

Kevin graduated from Stanford University with an MBA and JD, with distinction, and was elected to the Order of the Coif. He received his bachelor’s degree in economics from Harvard University, magna cum laude, and was formerly an adjunct professor at Brandeis University's International Business School.