Rupal Gadhia

Head of Admissions and Financial Aid at Harvard Business School; Global SVP of Marketing

Rupal Gadhia is the Managing Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Harvard Business School (HBS). Here are some key details about her:

Background and Education

Gadhia is an alumna of Harvard Business School, having graduated with an MBA in 2004.1 2
She was born to Indian parents who left Uganda as refugees and settled in Rochester, NY.2

Professional Experience

Prior to her current role at HBS, Gadhia had a long career in marketing and branding.2
Her post-HBS career began in brand management with Sara Lee and Campbell Soup Company.1 4
She later worked as a management consultant at Booz & Co. (now part of PwC).3 4
Gadhia held leadership positions at brand consulting firms like Brand Union and Interbrand.1 4
She served as Global Vice President of Brand and Digital Marketing at Genpact.4
Her most recent role before joining HBS was Senior Vice President and Global Head of Marketing for SharkNinja's robots and home environment categories.2 4

Current Role at Harvard Business School

Gadhia assumed the role of Managing Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at HBS in October 2023.1 4
In this position, she oversees the MBA admissions process and works to increase access and affordability for applicants from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.1 4
She was chosen after a national search conducted by executive search firm Heidrick & Struggles.2

Personal

Gadhia is 44 years old (as of 2023).2
She is the first person of Indian descent to hold the top admissions job at Harvard Business School.2

Gadhia's appointment to this role marks a significant milestone for HBS, given her diverse background and extensive experience in marketing and brand strategy.