“This organization has been a critical resource in the Philadelphia region and for my own entrepreneurial journey. I’m humbled by the opportunity to build upon Kiera’s legacy as a catalyst for representation and community engagement in Philly’s startup scene. I look forward to collaborating with stakeholders and board members for the next chapter of PSL.”

— Isabelle Kent, Executive Director

Executive Director

Philly Startup Leaders’ is pleased to announce our new Executive Director, Isabelle Kent.

Isabelle brings 10+ years of experience in Growth Strategy and Ecosystem Development with Enterprise SaaS, including consulting startups and Fortune 1000s on communications, innovation, and organizational development.

As executive director, Isabelle will work closely with staff and board members to ensure the organization can continue to serve through the ongoing pandemic. One of her first priorities will be deepening relationships with early-stage entrepreneurs to increase their visibility and growth. Other priorities include reimagining how Philadelphia can attract more resources for startups, new ways to engage growth-stage founders, and creative solutions for online engagement without the fatigue.

Read Isabelle’s letter to the PSL community

board of directors

Philly Startup Leaders’ mission is to help current and future founders succeed in Philadelphia and beyond. Our board members are responsible for guiding the work of the organization in a way that best fulfills that mission.

We look for board members who have a deep understanding of entrepreneurship, a passion for mentorship, knowledge of thriving startup ecosystems around the world, and a dedication to the development (and success) of founders in Philadelphia.

The four board members and joining us in 2021 have a combination of the above skills and so much more. Keep reading to meet the leaders who will help us take the organization to the next level.

We are equally excited to announce that Rudiger (Rudy) Ellis, CEO of Switchboard Live, will become the new President of PSL as Jennifer Maher moves to Chair of the Board.

Rudy J. Ellis - President

Rudy J. Ellis is the CEO of Switchboard Live and has been an active member of the PSL community and mentor for our Founded In Philly Accelerator.

“As we are turning the corner and coming out of the murkiness of 2020, I am extremely excited to be apart of the positive momentum that we have brewing at PSL for 2021. Bringing on a diverse group of new board members paired with Isabelle's leadership as our new Executive Director is the type of spark we need to support future founders in Philadelphia.”

Jennifer Maher - Chair

Jennifer Maher is the CEO of 1776 and has been an active member of the PSL community since 2010 and is serving entrepreneurs in the Greater Philadelphia area.

BOARD MEMBERS

We are grateful to welcome four new board members for three year terms. Each of the four bring years of expertise in entrepreneurship, investing, and community building as the organization expands its vision to make Philadelphia a place where everyone can achieve their entrepreneurial potential as part of a collaborative and innovative startup community.