Emergenetics International Announces Leadership Transition: Ann Ayers Named CEO; Marie Unger to Become Chief Learning Officer
Effective April 1, 2026, to align the company with its long-term growth strategy and vision
Denver, Colo., Mar 4, 2026 — Emergenetics International announced today a strategic leadership transition to align executive strengths, drive innovation and position the organization for sustained, scalable growth.
Marie Unger, who has served as Chief Executive Officer since 2020, will transition to Chief Learning Officer effective April 1, 2026, where she will focus on strengthening Emergenetics’ curriculum and solutions for adults and youth. Ann Ayers, experienced CEO with a significant track record of driving strategic growth in multiple sectors, will assume the role of Emergenetics’ next CEO on April 1, 2026, leading the company into its next chapter.
During her tenure as CEO, Unger transformed the organization on a global scale — spearheading the successful integration of its Asia Pacific partner, navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 era, transforming the company’s product suite for remote and hybrid workplaces and modernizing solutions to extend access and impact worldwide.
“Even as CEO, I could never stay out of the training room for long. That moment when a leader truly sees the potential in their teams — that has always been where my heart lies,” said Unger. “Stepping into the Chief Learning Officer role means I get to pour my full energy into that work, while supporting Ann in leading our organization into its next chapter. It’s the best of both worlds.”
Serving as CEO, Ann Ayers will set the organization’s strategic direction and propel operational performance. Ayers brings more than 25 years of leadership experience across legal, enterprise technology, nonprofit, communications and higher education. She has worked in both the US and Europe. Most recently, at Raise the Future, she grew revenue by 48%, expanded the team from 75 and 120 employees and tripled contract volume, serving more than 12,000 children and families annually.
“I see leaders today caught between extraordinary pressure and extraordinary possibility. They are striving to integrate AI in ways that preserve humanity and elevate human potential, create team chemistry across time zones and virtual screens and keep pace with an unprecedented rate of change,” offers Ayers. “What Marie and this team have built—a foundation for understanding how people think, lead and connect—is exactly what turns that pressure into possibility. The leaders who prioritize self-awareness and connection won’t just survive this moment. They’ll define it.”
Co-owner, Annie L. Browning, added, “This transition reflects the thoughtful, people-centered leadership that has always defined Emergenetics. Marie has been an extraordinary steward of this organization, and Ann is the right person to lead our next phase of growth. I am proud of what we have built and excited about where we are headed.”
About Emergenetics International:
Emergenetics® International is an award-winning organizational development consulting company dedicated to realizing the potential of people worldwide in companies, schools, nonprofits and government agencies. Emergenetics strengthens teams, empowers leaders and enriches students by providing thinking and behavioral insights that enhance understanding of oneself and others. We amplify productivity, collaboration and communication – build an engaging, high-performing culture in your business or school community today!
Media Contact:
Jenn Denfield
Emergenetics International
marketing@emergenetics.com [1]