About Joe
For 25 years, boards asked me the same question: who do we trust with this role?
I spent my search career on one side of a question many leaders never see up close. When a board or CEO decides which leader should win the mandate, what are they actually weighing? Across hundreds of my executive searches, it was almost never technical skill. Careers turned on how leaders engaged their peers, grew their teams, and how they communicated when the pressure was on them.
Now I coach the leaders those decisions are about: sponsored engagements for executives in motion — stepping into bigger roles, carrying succession expectations, leading change. We start with an honest look at what the people around them actually experience, and build from there.
Background
Partner at Heidrick & Struggles for over 25 years in Washington, D.C., active in the CEO & Board, Social Impact and Global Technology & Services practices; formed and led the Ed Tech specialty practice. Nine years before that with another global search firm, where I originated a practice in education markets. Before search, an HR career including an executive role with American Express.
ICF-certified leadership coach. Former Trustee of Calvert School and Chair of Calvert Education Services; currently an Advisor to Mpower. M.A. in education, concentration in human resource development, George Washington University. B.A., The American University.
Fundamental Values
Trust forms the foundation of every relationship. I create confidential, non-judgmental environments where leaders can explore vulnerabilities and aspirations openly.
Purpose drives our work — helping clients align actions with their core leadership goals and organizational needs.
Impact on culture — I deeply believe leaders shape the culture of the organizations that follow them. Coaching can provide the catalyst for leaders to elevate the quality of that culture and impact the lives of teammates in a meaningful way.
Human qualities of leadership. As AI and other technologies are rapidly evolving the nature of work, human-centered leadership is increasingly showing its value and impact.