Core Beliefs Shaping My Work
Simplify the complex.
Focus on what matters and strip out the rest to drive decision-making.
Get real.
Confront the hard truths, the sacred cows, the unexamined habits that get in the way.
Don’t forget the fun!
Because even through the challenges, we should enjoy the work we do.
You’ll get the straight truths, good and bad, so you can figure out your next moves.
I’LL ALWAYS TELL YOU WHAT YOU NEED TO HEAR.
EVEN WHEN IT’S NOT WHAT YOU WANT TO HEAR.
I am a former Associate Principal at McKinsey & Company with broad strategy, business development and commercial operations expertise across multiple industries. Before turning independent, I was a VP of Marketing and Strategy & Business Development at Ecolab, responsible for growth strategy, innovation, new product launches, sales support and marketing communications of a $1B growth business.
As an independent consultant, I focus on strategy (growth, portfolio, go-to-market, strategic execution) and setting my clients up for high impact (top-team alignment, de-biased decision making, change management). I have found that client service - helping you succeed - is where my heart is; it’s what gets me up in the morning.
My education is in the sciences. I hold a BS in Chemistry from Harvey Mudd College and a PhD in Physical Chemistry from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. I bring my analytical background and ongoing drive to understand how things work to every project.
My hobbies include choir, theater, home improvement and all manner of crafting. I enjoy the stage, but am happy to share the spotlight; the best performances are always a team effort. I find great fulfillment in conceiving of a new idea, tackling the challenges in bringing it to life and standing back to admire the finished product. Even better when the accomplishment is shared with others equally invested in the outcome.
Through My Clients’ Eyes
“Marja is an incredibly bright and thoughtful individual who, when faced with key strategic topics, has an ability to rapidly distill both qualitative and quantitative information. She is a wonderful person to work with, including a no-ego interface.”
— Spencer S., Managing Director, Private Equity
“Marja is so warm-hearted and honestly wants the best for the people she works with on any project. But don’t let the wonderful demeanor fool anyone; she has a spine of steel and is willing to deliver the tough messages.”
— Maria K., Transformation Officer, Food & Agriculture
“Marja is focused, committed, never distracted. She is not just a thought-partner, but an impact partner. She runs at 150% driven by purpose and passion.”
— Roberto U., Director, Professional Services
“Marja’s low-key demeanor is unique for consultants. Many feel the need to command the process, own the room and ‘earn their money.' But her approach is one of flexibility: learn, hypothesize, gather data, reflect, lead thought-provoking sessions, force participants to be active. Then, repeat cycle until project completion.”
— Wes J., C-Suite Executive, Food & Agriculture