Ariel Finch Bernstein, PhD
About Ariel Finch Bernstein, PhD
Ariel Finch Bernstein, PhD, is the Senior Manager of Talent Management at the NBA and an Executive Coach at Mindful Leadership Consulting, with a strong background in social-organizational psychology and executive coaching.
Current Role at NBA
Ariel Finch Bernstein is currently serving as the Senior Manager of Talent Management at the National Basketball Association (NBA), a role held since 2022. Based in New York, New York, Ariel contributes significantly to the People Analytics & Talent and Learning teams at the NBA. The focus remains on enhancing leadership performance through data-driven strategies and management best practices.
Research and Academic Background
Ariel Finch Bernstein has an extensive background in research and academics. Holding the position of Research Scholar at the Institute of Coaching, McLean/Harvard Medical School since 2018, Ariel authored a dissertation titled 'Race Matters in Coaching: An Investigation of Coaches' Willingness to Have Difficult Conversations with Leaders of Color.' This work underscores a commitment to empirical research and promoting inclusion in leadership. Additionally, Ariel served as an Adjunct Professor of Psychology at Barnard College from 2015 to 2019, contributing to the academic community.
Previous Roles at NBA
Before becoming the Senior Manager of Talent Management, Ariel worked as the Manager of Talent & Analytics at the NBA from 2019 to 2021. In this role, Ariel focused on leveraging analytics to drive talent strategies within the organization, contributing for 2 years in the Greater New York City Area.
Academic Qualifications
Ariel Finch Bernstein holds a PhD in Social-Organizational Psychology from Columbia University, achieved between 2012 and 2019. Ariel also earned a Master of Arts in Counseling for Mental Health & Wellness from New York University from 2010 to 2012 and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of California, Berkeley from 2005 to 2007. Ariel’s educational background is rooted in comprehensive studies across the fields of psychology, mental health, and political science.
Consulting and Coaching Expertise
Ariel Finch Bernstein has been a key player in executive coaching and consulting since 2019, working with Mindful Leadership Consulting. This role involves blending expertise in executive coaching with research on workplace stereotypes, aimed at promoting inclusion and advancing best practices. Ariel’s extensive experience includes serving as an External Executive Coach for Brooklyn Community Services from 2014 to 2015, showcasing a long-standing commitment to leadership development.