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Alison Mass: A Life of Leadership in Finance and Beyond

Image courtesy of Alison Mass

25 Jul '25
By The Shift
25 Jul '25
By The Shift

The Shift highlights women’s stories through the lens of impact. It hopes to contextualize history and inspire action.

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Alison Mass has been a partner at Goldman Sachs for over 24 years. She is Chairman of the firm’s Investment Banking division, advising corporate and private equity clients globally. She also leads the Office of Alumni Engagement and previously served on the firm’s Management Committee. Alison also serves on the NYU Stern Executive Board and the New York City Ballet board.

The Shift:

Who are three women you admire?

Alison:

My mother, Cynthia Magaril – a feminist ahead of her time – taught me to be independent, and have a formidable career but also to focus on having a family and a full life.

Adena Friedman, CEO of Nasdaq – the first woman CEO I can genuinely call my friend (I am now lucky enough to have many, but Adena was the first). I have learned so much from watching Adena lead Nasdaq while also focusing on her family and hobbies. I love how brave, smart, and optimistic she is.

Gelsey Kirkland- the first prima ballerina I ever saw dance live at the New York City Ballet when I was a teenager. I admired her discipline and dedication to her craft, and that’s how I fell in love with ballet. I now serve on the Board of the New York City Ballet.

The Shift:

What is the legacy you hope to leave behind as a changemaker and leader in your industry?

Alison:

Over the course of my 45-year career in investment banking—nearly 25 of them now as a Partner at Goldman Sachs— I’ve come to believe that my most lasting impact is reflected in the strength of my relationships. The opportunities that have defined my career have all originated from relationships that I invested in long before any deal was on the table. In this business, people want to work with those they like, and trust and who consistently show up for them. My clients and colleagues understand that I am committed to their success. Transactional interactions do not foster loyalty—genuine investment in people does.

A career of listening to my clients’ needs, hard work, and resilience has benefited me greatly. These are the qualities I uphold while guiding the next generation in Investment Banking. Effective leadership requires both confidence and humility—knowing when to speak and when to listen. Empowering younger professionals with visibility and meaningful opportunity isn’t just good stewardship—it’s a strategic imperative that strengthens our entire firm and ensures the future of our industry is in good hands.

 

Lastly, I believe career longevity comes not just from hard work and resilience, but from leading a full life. I’ve been able to thrive in this demanding profession for decades because I’ve nurtured passions and relationships outside of the office. My very large close-knit family, raising my children, and my interests in skiing and performing arts have kept me grounded, inspired, and energized. These are aspects of my life that I speak about freely; my intention is to model a path for people in Investment Banking to build a meaningful career and life. 

 

That balance has allowed me to bring my best self to work—and to the people I’ve been privileged to lead and work alongside.

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Alison Mass is honored as part of The Shift’s “90 Plus One” list, which recognizes influential women shaping contemporary culture. With Gloria Steinem featured on the inaugural print cover, the list pays homage to her 91 years of activism by highlighting a powerhouse community of women shifting culture.