title: Melanie Whelan
text: # Melanie Whelan
  
  Melanie Whelan is an American businesswoman who currently serves as a managing director of the investment firm Summit Partners.
  
  Whelan began her career working in corporate development for Virgin America and Starwood. She later became vice president of business development for Equinox Fitness. Whelan served as the COO of SoulCycle from 2012 until 2015, when she became the company's CEO. She led the company's initial public offering (IPO). In 2020, Whelan joined investment firm Summit Partners as a managing director.
  
  