Two decades of solving complex problems in the social sector
I'm Allison Barmann, and I founded Barmann Strategic to partner with mission-driven leaders tackling the complex challenges of creating real community impact.
My career has taken me from engineering and tech startups to strategy consulting at McKinsey & Company, executive leadership in philanthropy, and nonprofit leadership on the front lines. Across all of it, I've been drawn to one thing: working across sectors to solve problems that matter.
Professional Journey
Genesys Works Twin Cities – Executive Director
Most recently, I led Genesys Works Twin Cities, a workforce development organization connecting young people to career pathways through partnerships with businesses, schools, and community organizations. I navigated complex stakeholder relationships, led fundraising efforts, and worked to maximize impact during a time of significant change in our region. I also served as a founding board member for over seven years before stepping into the executive role.
Bush Foundation – Vice President
At the Bush Foundation, one of the largest private foundations in the Upper Midwest, I led strategic grantmaking initiatives across Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. I worked directly with nonprofit leaders, designed funding strategies, and gained deep insight into what organizations need to thrive—and the real barriers they face.
Itasca Project – Director
I led the Itasca Project, a civic leadership coalition of 60+ CEOs and civic leaders addressing regional economic competitiveness and quality of life in the Twin Cities. I facilitated cross-sector collaboration and brought together business, nonprofit, and public sector leaders to solve complex regional challenges.
McKinsey & Company – Strategy Consultant
I spent nine years at McKinsey developing the analytical rigor and problem-solving frameworks that guide all my work. I served clients across industries on strategy and growth challenges, and as a Community Fellow, led global social sector projects—bringing McKinsey's strategic methodology to nonprofits and social enterprises.
Early Career
Before business school, I worked as an engineer and at a technology startup—experiences that taught me to think analytically and thrive in ambiguity.
What I Bring
Strategic Problem-Solving
From McKinsey to mission-driven organizations, I know how to break down complex challenges, find clarity amid competing priorities, and develop strategies that actually work in the real world.
Cross-Sector Leadership
Through the Itasca Project and my work across consulting, philanthropy, and nonprofits, I've spent my career bringing together business, nonprofit, and public sector leaders. I speak all three languages fluently and know how to build partnerships that create real change.
Philanthropic & Nonprofit Insight
I've worked on both sides—leading a foundation's grantmaking and running a nonprofit seeking funding. I understand what funders need, what organizations face, and how to bridge that gap.
Governance & Board Leadership
I've served in leadership roles on multiple boards over the past 20 years, including as a founding board member. I know what makes boards effective—and what gets in the way.
Education
Northwestern University – Kellogg School of Management
MBA, Marketing, Strategy, Business and its Social Environment (2002-2004)
Siebel Scholar, Outstanding Marketing Student, Margery Kraus Scholar
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
BS, Mechanical Engineering (1994-1998)
Two-time All-American Varsity Gymnast, Team Captain, MVP
Personal
I live in Minnesota with my husband and three kids. I'm an avid cross-country skier—I've completed 14 World Loppet marathons and half-marathons across ten countries. I've also biked across several states, and I'm always planning the next adventure. When I'm not on skis or a bike, you'll find me in one of my two book clubs (I love giving and getting book recommendations).
Connect with me on LinkedIn