In a world where business and purpose often seem like competing forces, Neha Desai Shah stands as a luminous example of how innovation and compassion can move in harmony. As the Cofounder, President, and Board Member of GEP, she has not only helped build one of the world’s fastest-growing supply chain solutions firms, but has also become a guiding light for values-driven leadership, technological innovation, and societal transformation.
Neha Desai Shah: Building a Global Leader from the Ground Up
When Neha Desai Shah co-launched GEP over two decades ago, the industry was still largely resistant to digital transformation. Yet she foresaw a future where data, analytics, and cutting-edge technology would redefine how enterprises operate. Under her strategic leadership, GEP has evolved into a global powerhouse in procurement and supply chain solutions, trusted by leading Fortune 500 companies across industries.
Neha’s vision and entrepreneurial acumen have positioned GEP at the forefront of digital supply chain transformation, steering complex engagements with C-suite executives and guiding them through pivotal strategic decisions. Her ability to merge operational efficiency with human-centered leadership has created a culture where employees are deeply engaged, empowered, and connected to a higher purpose.
Championing Sustainability, DEI, and Human Rights
What sets Neha Desai Shah apart is her steadfast belief that businesses can—and must—be a force for good. She has been the driving architect behind GEP’s sustainability, diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and social impact strategies, embedding purpose into the company’s DNA.
Her advocacy extends far beyond corporate walls. Neha serves as Vice-Chair of Pratham USA, a global education nonprofit that transforms the lives of millions of children. She is also an Advisory Board Member of Sakhi for South Asian Women, an organization that empowers survivors of gender-based violence, and an advisor to the Kailash Satyarthi Children’s Foundation, working tirelessly to end child labor in supply chains worldwide.
Her recent collaboration with Kailash Satyarthi, Nobel Peace Laureate, at the World Procurement Congress spotlighted the urgent need to protect children from exploitation while inspiring industry leaders to drive ethical practices globally.
Neha Desai Shah: Recognitions that Reflect Purposeful Leadership
Neha Desai Shah’s groundbreaking work has garnered numerous accolades, each a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence and positive impact. Among her most prestigious honors:
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Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year (New Jersey, 2023) – Celebrating visionary leaders who transform industries.
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Aspen Institute – Henry Crown Fellowship (Class of 2022), recognizing community-spirited leaders shaping the future.
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ISM Women & Leadership Diamond Award for outstanding achievement in procurement and supply chain.
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Supply & Demand Chain Executive Women in Supply Chain Award (2020)
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TiE Entrepreneur of the Year (2018)
These honors represent not only her business success but also her unwavering dedication to making the world a better place.
Empowering Through Education, Arts, and Technology
A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, Neha earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations, a Bachelor of Science in Economics, and an MBA in Entrepreneurial Management from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, all with highest honors. She remains deeply connected to her alma mater, serving on the advisory board of the McNulty Leadership Program and mentoring emerging leaders on entrepreneurship and innovation.
Neha’s commitment to empowering others also shines in her work as a certified AI trainer from the VJAL Institute. She promotes AI as a tool to unleash human potential, breaking down barriers and empowering women, youth, and underprivileged communities with the confidence and skills to thrive in an AI-driven era.
A passionate arts and music enthusiast, she serves as Vice-President and Board Member of McCarter Theatre in New Jersey, supporting cultural enrichment and creative expression in her community.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders
Beyond her executive success, Neha Desai Shah’s legacy is defined by her generosity, empathy, and determination to lift others. She actively mentors students and young entrepreneurs at University of Pennsylvania and New Jersey Institute of Technology, nurturing the next generation of ethical, resilient leaders.
Her message is clear: true leadership is not about personal success alone—it is about creating a lasting positive impact on people and society.
A Purpose-Driven Life of Excellence
Today, Neha lives in Princeton, New Jersey with her husband Shalin Shah and their three children. Despite her towering professional achievements, she remains grounded, channeling her influence to uplift communities and champion causes that safeguard the dignity and future of others.
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