Dec. 08 2025 – Chicago, IL – Vantage Leadership Consulting proudly announces the appointment of Jacqueline Ackerman, Ph.D., as managing partner, effective January 1, 2026. Ackerman, who began her career at Vantage as an undergraduate intern almost three decades ago, will become the fourth person in the firm’s history to hold this position. This announcement coincides with Vantage’s 50th anniversary of operations, underscoring both continuity and renewal at the Chicago-based firm.
“As we mark fifty years, I feel the honor and responsibility of stepping into this role,” said Ackerman. “Our legacy has always been about trust, long-term partnerships, and developing exceptional leaders. I look forward to protecting that foundation while ensuring we continue to evolve and set the standard for exemplary consulting services. We have something special here, and my job is to nurture it for the future.”
In her new role, Ackerman will oversee Vantage’s strategy and operations while remaining closely engaged with clients. She will focus on strengthening partnerships, fostering growth, and sustaining the collaborative culture that has defined the firm for five decades. A strong advocate for developing emerging talent, she is committed to ensuring Vantage continues to thrive as both a trusted advisor and a supportive community.
Ackerman has spent 23 years at Vantage, beginning as a Purdue undergraduate intern and rising through the firm’s ranks. She cites Vantage’s culture of trust, collaboration, and lasting impact as the reason for her long tenure, earning recognition as a leader who amplifies others’ voices and carries the firm’s values forward. Ackerman is the first woman to serve as managing partner in Vantage’s history, following George Blomgren, Carl Robinson, and Keith Goudy.
Outgoing managing partner Keith Goudy, who has led Vantage for the past decade, praised the appointment: “Jacki was the clear choice to lead Vantage into its next era. She brings not only deep expertise in the full suite of our services, but also a spirit of partnership and energy that inspires colleagues and clients alike. Her leadership embodies the values that have carried us through five decades.”
Goudy will remain an active member of the partner group, ensuring seamless continuity and reflecting Vantage’s depth of experience in succession planning.
Founded in 1976 with just three employees, Vantage has been headquartered in Chicago’s historic Civic Opera Building since its inception, making it one of the building’s longest-standing tenants. In its history, the firm has served almost 800 clients globally. Many client relationships span decades; a testament to the trust and impact Vantage has cultivated over time.
ABOUT VANTAGE LEADERSHIP CONSULTING
Vantage Leadership Consulting is an expert in partnering with organizations to identify and develop world-class leaders who can drive their companies’ business strategies. From executive assessments and succession planning to leadership development, executive coaching, and high-performance team development, Vantage has spent five decades focused on a single mission: ensuring their clients have the leadership required to win in their marketplace. Founded in 1976, Vantage is based in Chicago, IL, and serves clients worldwide. To learn more, please visit www.VantageLeadership.com.
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