Kara Hess

Since joining Women Leaders in Sports in 2018, Kara Hess has played a pivotal role in shaping and elevating the organization's impact. As Chief Experience Officer, she oversees leadership development programming, national events, and aspects of member and partner engagement —serving as a central architect of the organization's growth and external presence. Kara's duties also include oversight of staff, helping develop and maximize their skills for the benefit of the membership and the national office.

Kara leads the development, strategy, and execution of Women Leaders’ comprehensive leadership initiatives, building programming from the ground up and curating transformative experiences for members at every career stage. Her leadership extends to all national events, from panel programming and affiliate receptions to the annual Women Leaders Convention. As a recognized liaison with key stakeholders, including the NCAA, NACDA, USOPC, College Football Playoff, and the WBCA, Kara is known for her ability to build strategic relationships and create value-driven collaborations.

Kara works directly with CEO Patti Phillips to identify and elevate high-potential women leaders for leadership roles, often collaborating with search firms to expand representation at all levels in sport leadership. Kara also plays a key role in advancing the organization’s business development efforts, working closely with the partnerships team to cultivate and activate new revenue oppotunities.