Melody Rose

About Melody Rose

With over two decades of leadership in higher education and talent management, I now work as Senior Partner at WittKieffer, a premier executive search and leadership advisory firm. My focus lies in identifying and supporting the next generation of university leaders, aligning their expertise with the evolving challenges faced by American colleges and universities. Leveraging my NACD Directorship Certification, I collaborate with academic institutions to address leadership needs, foster board development, and drive impactful organizational growth. My tenure as a two-time public system chancellor and university president has shaped a deep understanding of higher education leadership dynamics. At WittKieffer, I partner with clients to enhance their leadership strategies while remaining committed to advancing talent development and organizational resilience in the sector. This work reflects my lifelong mission to create opportunities for the next generation and to strengthen institutions that improve quality of life.

Experience

1. Senior Partner

   WittKieffer

   Jul 2025 — Present · US

   Provide executive search and advisory services to university boards, chancellors, and presidents. • Identify and develop the next generation of university leaders through strategic talent acquisition. • Foster relationships with educational institutions to understand their leadership needs and challenges.

Education

• Cornell University

  Ph.D., Government

• Cornell University

  M.A., Government

• Cornell University

  M.P.A.

• University of California, Santa Cruz

  B.A., Politics