In the ever-evolving world of business, few leaders embody resilience, vision, and transformation as powerfully as Neela Montgomery. A seasoned global CEO, board director, and digital transformation leader, Montgomery has carved out an extraordinary career spanning Europe, Asia, and the United States. Her story is one of breaking barriers, leading through crises, and reimagining the future of some of the world’s most influential consumer, retail, and healthcare companies.
From the boardrooms of Fortune 500 companies to the frontline of a global pandemic, Neela Montgomery has consistently demonstrated that leadership is not merely about driving profits—it is about shaping industries, empowering teams, and building a more sustainable future.
Early Foundations of Neela Montgomery: Literature, Learning, and Leadership
Unlike many business leaders who begin with traditional finance or business degrees, Neela Montgomery took an unconventional path. She studied English Literature at Oxford University, a foundation that sharpened her ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and approach challenges with creativity. Later, she earned her MBA at INSEAD, one of the world’s most prestigious business schools, with campuses in France and Singapore.
This unique blend of humanities and global business education laid the groundwork for her ability to connect cultural insight with strategic thinking—a hallmark of her leadership style.
Building Global Expertise: Tesco and Otto Group
Montgomery’s corporate journey began at Tesco PLC, where she spent over a decade taking on diverse leadership roles in strategy, international expansion, merchandising, and eCommerce. Rising to oversee the General Merchandise division for Tesco UK, she became a member of the UK Board of Directors, influencing one of the world’s largest retail organizations.
Her success at Tesco led her to Otto Group, one of Europe’s biggest retail conglomerates. As a member of the executive board and Executive Chairwoman for five operating companies—including Crate & Barrel—she drove digital innovation, strengthened global partnerships, and prepared traditional retail brands for the digital age.
Neela Montgomery: Transforming Crate & Barrel into a Digital Powerhouse
When Montgomery stepped into the role of CEO and Executive Chair of Crate & Barrel Holdings, she inherited a heritage brand at a crossroads. Rather than resting on tradition, she leaned into innovation. She repositioned CB2 as a modern retail leader, spearheaded a digital-first strategy, and by the end of her tenure, more than 60% of Crate & Barrel’s sales came from eCommerce.
Her leadership exemplified the power of combining legacy with innovation—a strategy that has since become essential for retail survival.
Leading CVS Pharmacy During a Global Crisis
One of Montgomery’s most defining leadership chapters came during her tenure as President of CVS Pharmacy and Executive Vice President at CVS Health. Responsible for overseeing 10,000 pharmacies, $90 billion in revenue, and 190,000 associates, she led during one of the most critical times in modern healthcare history—the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under her leadership, CVS became a cornerstone of the national vaccine rollout, administering vaccines, boosters, and tests at unprecedented scale. Not only did the company deliver record-breaking financial performance during this period, but it also provided life-saving services to millions of Americans.
Montgomery’s ability to balance operational excellence with a profound sense of social responsibility set her apart as a leader of impact.
Revitalizing Beauty with Orveon Global
Most recently, Montgomery served as CEO of Orveon Global, the prestige beauty collective behind Laura Mercier and Bare Minerals. She successfully turned the company around, improving profitability, stabilizing operations, and reestablishing brand relevance in a fiercely competitive market.
Her leadership reinforced her reputation as a transformation specialist—capable of guiding companies through reinvention while keeping a strong focus on culture, innovation, and consumer trust.
A Recognized Global Leader and Changemaker
Beyond executive roles, Neela Montgomery is an influential board director. She has served on the boards of Squarespace (playing a critical role in its $7.8B take-private transaction), Logitech, Fetch, St. Jude’s Research Hospital & ALSAC, the National Retail Federation, and Boston Medical Center – WellSense.
Her leadership has earned her widespread recognition:
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Fortune’s Most Powerful Women – One to Watch (2021)
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Top Women in Retail (2019)
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Henry Crown Fellow, Aspen Institute (2020)
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Judge, World Retail Awards (2018–2022)
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MIT Solve Challenge Judge (2022)
These accolades reflect not just her professional success, but also her commitment to using leadership as a force for global good.
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