Rob Apatoff

Rob Apatoff is a Clinical Professor of Executive Education and Executive Director of the Northwestern/Kellogg Executive Leadership Institute (KELI) at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management. With over 35 years of executive experience, he specializes in leadership development, strategic management, and corporate turnarounds. Previously, he served as CEO of FTD Companies (2008–2017) and Rand McNally (2003–2008), leading major acquisitions and restructuring initiatives.

Education: Bachelor’s in Communications from DePauw University (1980).

Research Interests: Rob focuses on executive leadership in competitive markets, digital transformation in traditional industries, and cross-industry strategic marketing. His career includes C-suite roles at Anheuser-Busch, Reebok, and Allstate, where he developed expertise in consumer-facing business models and organizational resilience.

Professional Affiliations: Senior Advisor at Texas Pacific Group (TPG), Board member of Club Champion, Intercontinental Art, and former roles at Goodman Theatre, SIFE, and DePauw University’s Board of Visitors.