Emaan Mahmood
Emaan Mahmood is an organizational transformation leader and executive coach whose work sits at the intersection of strategy, culture, and operations. She currently serves as Senior Director of Strategic Operations at the ACLU, where she partners across the organization to advance mission-driven impact, strengthen organizational effectiveness, and translate strategic priorities into action.
As a trusted thought partner and advisor, Emaan has helped public, private and non-profit organizations navigate complexity, align people and priorities, and build cultures of accountability, excellence, and inclusion.
Emaan is also the founder of Zara Coaching, where she works with executives, emerging leaders, and professionals seeking greater clarity, purpose, and alignment in their careers and lives. As an ICF-certified coach trained through IPEC’s Coaching Training Program and a Becoming You Certified Practitioner, she specializes in supporting people through transition and growth – helping them make meaningful career and leadership decisions with confidence and intention.
As a first-generation woman leader, parent, and coach, Emaan brings a systems-oriented perspective grounded in empathy, authenticity, and a deep commitment to helping people thrive. Her core belief: transformation begins when people feel truly seen. From this foundation, individuals are better able to reconnect with their values, strengths, and sense of purpose, enabling greater alignment and more meaningful impact across their lives, organizations, and communities.
Emaan holds a BA in Psychology and Economics from Rutgers University and an MBA in Finance, Strategy, and Social Impact from NYU Stern School of Business.