The Business of Purpose-Driven Success: How Christina Gullo is Redefining Leadership

Christina Gullo is the owner of True North Executive Solutions, LLC. Prior to this she was the President/CEO for Villa of Hope from 2010-2023.

During her tenue, Gullo led a fiscal turnaround, created transformational strategic plans to move from a residential provider for kids to the behavioral health organization it is today. She also initiated a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging strategy, and guided an extensive agency rebranding effort. Under her leadership, Villa completed construction and opened the Living Hope Treatment Center, a substance detoxification program for ages 16 to adult; the only focused treatment beds available in Monroe County for those under age 18 as well as a capital expansion for outpatient mental health.

With a master’s degree in social work from Marywood University and an executive MBA from Rochester Institute of Technology, Saunders School of Business, Christina’s background includes clinical, human resources, and C-level business experience. She began her career as a Social Worker for Catholic Family Center and was previously the VP Human Resources, VP Programs & Strategy, and Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer.

Gullo received Circle of Excellence Award in 2023, Women of Excellence by the RBJ in 2021 and was named an Athena Award Finalist in 2023 and 2014. She was also recognized in 2008 with the Up-and-Coming Businesswoman Award and was a 2005 recipient of the Forty under 40 Award.

Gullo authored Courageous & Authentic Leadership, co-authored Making Strategy Count in the Health and Human Services Sector and a white paper on Adaptive Change, chronicling the culture, leadership and strategy transformations at the Villa.

Gullo is proud to serve as a mentor to women in her career, many of whom have grown professionally and are now leading organizations in and beyond the Rochester community. Additionally, she is on the Program Committee for East House, the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee at Genesee Valley Club and serves on the Board for Geva Theatre where she was the Chair until from 2022-2024 and is the current Chair for Nominating & Governance.