Stephen E. Sellick

Stephen Sellick is a recognized thought leader in corporate governance, risk management, and complex litigation, with over 30 years advising boards and senior executives on high-stakes issues in litigation, public policy, and risk management. As founder and CEO of Gnarus Advisors, he led the firm to national recognition — named one of Consulting magazine’s “Seven Small Jewels” and one of Inc.’s fastest-growing private companies — advising Fortune 100 clients across multiple industries. Following Gnarus’ acquisition in 2017, he assumed P&L responsibility for the acquiring firm’s private sector consulting business, successfully integrating operations and transitioning leadership before rejoining Gnarus as Board Chair when the firm re-established its independence in 2021. 

Repeatedly recognized by Lexology (formerly Who’s Who Legal) as a Thought Leader in his field, Stephen brings both analytical rigor and board-level judgment to complex, unstructured problems. 

Beyond his consulting work, Stephen is deeply engaged with the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy — serving as President of its Alumni board and a member of the Harris Council, mentoring students, and teaching a seminar on Decision Making Under Uncertainty, a subject that has organized much of his professional life. He also serves on the board of AVIVO Wines and the Sonoma County Regional Parks Foundation. Stephen will be permanently relocating to Chicago and is looking forward to moving into his renovated home and deepening his engagement with the city and the University community.