Umbreen Bhatti is in the news as Springboard Enterprises, a global leader in advancing women-led innovation, has officially named her its new CEO. She succeeds Julie Silverstein, who has served as interim CEO since 2024.
Silverstein will remain involved during the transition, ensuring continuity as Bhatti takes the helm.
Bhatti’s appointment signals a bold new chapter for Springboard. Her career spans leadership development, innovation strategy, public media, legal practice, and social impact advocacy.
This powerful blend uniquely positions her to steer the organization through its next decade of growth and influence.
Most recently, Bhatti served as the Constance Hess Williams ’66 Director at Barnard College’s Athena Center for Leadership, where she spearheaded a comprehensive relaunch.
Under her guidance, the center evolved into a dynamic hub for aspiring and established changemakers focused on equity, inclusion, and building a better world.
Her cross-sector journey includes leading the innovation lab at KQED, the NPR and PBS affiliate in the Bay Area, where she redefined how public media connects with communities through storytelling and digital experimentation.
Bhatti also has a legal background and remains active in media advocacy, sitting on the boards of several journalism organizations.
“Umbreen brings the kind of leadership and perspective that will guide Springboard through its next decade of growth,” said Kay Koplovitz, Co-founder and Chairman of Springboard Enterprises. “Her cross-sector experience and thoughtful approach to developing teams, programs, and philanthropic support make her a strong fit.”
In a statement, Bhatti emphasized her alignment with Springboard’s mission:
“I’ve spent my career working with builders – exactly the kinds of people who make up Springboard’s extraordinary community. I’m honored to join an organization that believes in the transformative power of women founders.”
Since its founding, Springboard Enterprises has built an impressive legacy, supporting over 930 women-led companies, including 10 unicorns, with a collective market impact of $76 billion.
Alumni from its accelerator programs have achieved 28 IPOs, 238 M&A exits, and have ascended to influential roles in the most competitive sectors of healthcare, technology, and beyond.
With Bhatti now leading the organization, Springboard aims to deepen its global reach, expand capital access, and accelerate innovation through its high-impact programming and advisor networks.
Former interim CEO Julie Silverstein reflected on the leadership transition, stating:
“Leading Springboard during this pivotal chapter has been a privilege. Umbreen’s leadership style is deeply human, mission-driven, and future-facing. She’s exactly the right person to guide Springboard into its next phase of impact.”
Bhatti will make her first public appearance as CEO on June 18, 2025, at the Women’s Health Accelerator Showcase & Demo Day in New York City, marking the beginning of a new and energized era for the organization.
