Aprill L Baughns
Aprill B. is a Senior Director Analyst at Gartner, where she leverages research and advisory expertise to provide marketing and communications insights to CMOs, CCOs, and executive leaders across global organizations. With a focus on transformation, organizational design, operational models, and talent development, she serves as an objective thought partner, helping leaders address critical strategic priorities and align big-picture solutions with organizational goals. Her work combines data-driven research, behavioral science, and practical guidance to drive operational excellence, efficiency, and growth.
Prior to joining Gartner, Aprill held leadership roles in change and transformation at organizations including Parexel, Amentum, Cognizant, Optum, The Hartford, and AT&T, managing initiatives valued at hundreds of millions and strengthening consulting relationships with both B2B and B2C clients. She brings extensive experience in M&A, operational readiness, project delivery, and solution enablement, along with certifications in project management, agile methodologies, and organizational change. Aprill is passionate about bridging the gap between strategy and execution, fostering agility and innovation in complex, mission-critical initiatives.
Aprill is also deeply involved in professional communities and mentorship. She participates in the Greater Orlando Organizational Development Network, the Association of Change Management Professionals, and serves as a mentor and thought leader within Gartner. She holds a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and Effectiveness from Charter Oak State College and has been recognized for excellence throughout her career, including the Pinnacle Award from AT&T for ranking in the top 1% of sales professionals. Fluent in Spanish, she combines technical expertise with interpersonal acumen to deliver lasting impact across organizations and teams.
• Agile OKRs
• Charter Oak State College
• Kennesaw State University
• Pinnacle Award
• Greater Orlando Organizational Development (GOOD) Network
• Association of Change Management Professionals
• Zeta Phi Beta Sorority — Epsilon Epsilon Zeta
• Town of Manchester
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to sheer drive and passion, along with a strong sense of self-reliance—I became an emancipated minor and supported myself through school and work. I’ve consistently bet on myself, taking calculated risks and pursuing opportunities, and my ultimate motivation has always been a desire to create positive impact for others.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received came from my grandmother, who shared two lessons that have stuck with me: never have more children than you can care for on your own, and “don’t go to college, go through college.” That second piece has guided me to focus on educational programs that truly align with my goals, rather than chasing prestige for its own sake.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to keep an open mind about alternative career paths and nontraditional ways to apply your skills. Take opportunities even if you don’t check every box, and don’t be afraid to ask for what you want or negotiate for it. Most importantly, bet on yourself—create opportunities rather than waiting for them, and be bold in applying what you learn in unique and unexpected contexts.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is that roles and job definitions are evolving rapidly, and many people-centered fields remain male-dominated. At the same time, AI is reshaping how we work, which presents both challenges and opportunities. It also highlights the value of empathy, communication, and relationship-building—areas where women bring unique strengths and have the opportunity to step into leadership.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are making a meaningful impact, serving my community, and mentoring others. I deeply value sisterhood, scholarship, and continuously learning, and I strive to leave a positive legacy through everything I do.