Cara Shapiro is an RHR partner with over 25 years of experience serving clients across industries including manufacturing, consumer goods, energy, financial services, healthcare, insurance, real estate, and retail. She focuses on understanding individuals within the broader systems in which they operate. Known for building authentic relationships with a direct-yet-supportive approach, Cara excels at synthesizing complex information to support executive development and organizational performance. She has led challenging CEO succession projects and is adept at guiding executive teams toward practical improvements that impact long-term strategic goals.
Comfortable with change and complexity, Cara is often called upon for challenging, team-oriented projects. Drawing on her deep experience, she quickly synthesizes the information needed to make a meaningful impact. She is known for asking incisive questions about her clients’ industries, helping them craft a clear vision of the work ahead and empowering leaders to reach their full potential. Cara’s ability to engage with limited context and deliver rapid, high-value insights is a hallmark of her approach.
Curiosity is a driving force in Cara’s life, fueling her passion for learning about emerging trends and industries that impact her clients. She received a PhD in clinical psychology from Indiana University and a bachelor’s degree from University at Albany, State University of New York. Cara is a member of the American Psychological Association and Division 13 of the Society of Consulting Psychology. Outside work, she enjoys hiking, practicing yoga, and exploring new places.
Focus Areas
- Senior executive leadership
- Organizational development
- Team effectiveness
Special Skills
- Developing high-value insights related to an organization’s strategic direction
- Empowering leaders to reach their full potential
- Improving team performance
Education
- Indiana University, PhD, clinical psychology
- University at Albany, State University of New York, bachelor’s degree
- Member, American Psychological Association and Division 13, Society of Consulting Psychology
Leadership philosophy
Leaders should focus on the practical improvements that can impact long-term strategic goals.
Passions
Hiking, practicing yoga, and exploring new places.