Kotter Appoints Kathy Gersch as CEO, Enters New Era of Delivering Change-Ready Adaptability Strategies

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BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 2, 2025--

Leading adaptability and transformation firm Kotter announced the appointment of Kathy Gersch as CEO.

Gersch co-founded Kotter in 2008 alongside world-renowned change expert Dr. John Kotter, and she has played an integral role in furthering Kotter’s vision: millions leading, billions benefiting.

Gersch’s previous roles within the firm include Chief Marketing Officer, Chief Growth Officer, Chief Commercial Officer, and President. Her commitment to strategic growth and operational excellence has enabled Kotter to become the leader in transformational consulting and leadership training, with a significant roster of Fortune 500 companies.

Gersch takes the helm at Kotter as Rick Western retires after 12 years as CEO and a long history of leadership in the consulting industry. This transition is the result of thoughtful succession planning and reflects Kotter’s commitment to strong leadership continuity. Under Gersch’s guidance, Kotter will continue to expand its global impact, helping organizations build the adaptability and capabilities required to thrive in today’s complex, and often uncertain, environment.

“Kathy’s leadership is synonymous with Kotter’s growth and impact,” said Dr. John Kotter, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman. “Her dedication to our clients, people, and mission has been instrumental in shaping the firm’s success during the past 17 years. With Kathy as Kotter’s CEO, we will remain at the forefront of adaptability and transformation research and training.”

Prior to Kotter, Gersch served in senior leadership roles at brands such as Nordstrom and Milliken & Company. She is an experienced board member for organizations including Bartell Drugs, Pacific Medical Centers, and butterLONDON, and currently holds board positions, including one at Seattle Humane. Kathy is also a Puget Sound Business Journal 40 under 40 recipient and was named AdAge Magazine’s Top 25 Women to Watch.

About Kotter International, Inc.

Kotter is the authority in adaptability and transformation. We help individuals and organizations better lead and manage change via world-class consulting services and leadership development training, including the Kotter Change Certification Program. Founded by the world's foremost change expert, Dr. John Kotter, and backed by five decades of ongoing, empirical research and real-world experience in the science of change, our proven approach offers unimaginable results at unprecedented speed. Learn more at www.kotterinc.com.

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KEYWORD: MASSACHUSETTS UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA

INDUSTRY KEYWORD: EDUCATION CONSULTING TRAINING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

SOURCE: Kotter International, Inc.

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PUB: 12/02/2025 09:00 AM/DISC: 12/02/2025 09:00 AM

http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251202968960/en