Shelley Zalis–CEO, Founder, and “Chief Troublemaker” of The Female Quotient–is a trailblazing entrepreneur, three-time movement maker, and global advocate for gender equality in the workplace. She is redefining the rules of leadership, and spearheading systemic change across industries.

At The Female Quotient, Zalis built the largest global community of women in business, uniting over 6 million women across 30 industries in more than 100 countries. The organization is renowned for The Equality Lounge®, inclusive spaces found at industry conferences sparking conscious conversations and driving collective action to advance workplace equality.

A pioneer in market research, Zalis founded Online Testing Exchange (OTX), revolutionizing online research, and sold the company to Ipsos for $80 million, cementing her status as a visionary leader in business. She also co-founded #SeeHer, a groundbreaking initiative, ensuring accurate portrayals of women and girls in media and advertising.

Today, Zalis is transforming workplace cultures, amplifying the visibility and voices of corporate women worldwide. The Female Quotient is in The Business of Equality®, fostering collaboration to change the equation and close the gender gap.

A sought-after thought leader, Zalis is a LinkedIn Top 20 Most Influential Voice, and a contributor to TIME, Forbes, and IMD. Her accolades include the Matrix Award, Industry Legend Award, Mosaic Award, EY Entrepreneur of the Year, and a spot on the Global Leaders 50 List. In 2024, The Female Quotient was named one of Fast Company’s Brands That Matter.

A self-described rule-breaker, Zalis dismantles workplace structures–designed by men at a time in history when women weren’t in the workplace–and reimagines solutions for modern leaders. By breaking barriers, leading with intention, and driving change, she is leaving a legacy of equality for future generations.