I’m on my way to meet Anita Allen, a seasoned board director and strategist, at her office in New Jersey. Anita is known for her strategic vision, financial expertise, and leadership in digital transformation. She’s also a pioneer, having been the first woman consulting partner at KPMG in the Northeast.
As I arrive, Anita greets me warmly and we settle into her office, which is tastefully decorated with artwork and memorabilia from her extensive career. She’s confident and composed, exuding a presence that instantly commands respect.
“You have an impressive career spanning leadership in consulting, strategic planning, and board governance,” I begin. “What inspired you to pursue this path?”
Anita leans back and smiles. “It wasn’t planned. I started as a financial auditor at KPMG, but I quickly realized I was more interested in how businesses operated than just auditing their financials. I was curious about how strategic decisions influenced success. That curiosity led me to transition into management consulting, where I could analyze operations, develop strategies, and improve performance. I found purpose in helping organizations grow, and that purpose has guided me throughout my career.”
“You became the first woman consulting partner at KPMG in the Northeast, which must have been a challenging experience,” I say. “Did you have any mentors to help you along the way?”
Anita shakes her head. “No, I didn’t. I had to figure things out on my own, and it wasn’t easy. There were no leadership examples for me to follow, and no one to guide me. It was a different time. I learned resilience and independence, but it also taught me the importance of mentorship. Today, I mentor emerging leaders, especially women, because I want to be the mentor I never had.”
She pauses, reflecting. “I think that experience shaped my leadership style. I learned to ask the bigger questions, to look beyond the numbers, and to connect the dots between strategy, operations, people, and technology. That strategic perspective is my greatest strength.”
I nod, impressed by her journey. “After achieving so much at KPMG, you went on to found the Allen Advisory Group. What motivated you to take that leap?”
“There was a lot going on in the consulting industry at the time,” Anita explains. “KPMG, like all the big firms, was spinning off its consulting arm after the Enron scandal and the end of the Y2K era. I wasn’t happy with the leadership direction, so I retired for a few years and then started my own firm. I wanted to work on my own terms, focusing on strategic planning and digital transformation, helping mid-market companies prioritize their strategies and execute effectively.”
“That must have been a bold move,” I say. “What are you most proud of from that journey?”
Anita smiles. “Building my own consulting firm was incredibly rewarding, but I’m equally proud of my leadership in the non-profit sector. I served as Board President for a domestic violence agency, leading a successful capital campaign that raised more than half of the funds needed without asking friends or family. It taught me the power of strategic influence and the importance of giving back.”
“You’ve also held strategic roles on several boards, including The RENN Fund and Tingley Rubber Corporation,” I note. “How has that shaped your perspective on governance and leadership?”
“I’ve always believed in sound governance and strategic oversight,” Anita replies. “As Chair of Audit and Nominating/Governance Committees, I focused on ensuring boards looked at enterprise risk holistically, not just financial audits. But my biggest impact has been mentoring the next generation of leaders. I’ve always challenged people to think bigger and see beyond limitations. That’s the legacy I’m most proud of.”
I can see the passion in her eyes. “What’s next for you? Where do you see yourself making an impact in the future?”
“My next goal is to secure additional corporate board seats,” Anita says with determination. “I’m particularly interested in private companies and smaller public companies where I can make a meaningful impact. I bring a strategic vision, financial expertise, and digital transformation experience that I believe can add real value.”
She pauses thoughtfully. “But it’s more than just about the next role. I’m excited about continuous learning and giving back. I believe leadership is about influence, purpose, and mentoring others. That’s what drives me forward. I want to leave a legacy of strategic growth and inspired leaders.”
As we wrap up, I realize that Anita’s journey is not just about her impressive achievements, but about her passion for growth, learning, and giving back. It’s clear that her impact will be felt for generations to come.
Maarten Schafer
Chief Storyteller
CoolbrandsPeople
