Developing the Strategic Mindset
The conversation
High-level leadership requires more than technical expertise; it requires a sophisticated understanding of power dynamics, risk mitigation, and systemic impact. This is a peer-to-peer partnership designed to bridge the gap between "being a manager" and "being a steward."
Executive Mentorship: The Steward Leader
The Focus: Moving from tactical execution to strategic stewardship.
For the newly appointed CEO or C-Suite executive, the transition can be isolating. I serve as a mentor to help you navigate the nuances of board relations, executive presence, and the psychological complexities of leading large systems.
Developing Governance Literacy: Learning how to report to, manage, and leverage a Board of Directors.
Systems Thinking: Shifting focus from individual departments to the health of the entire organizational ecosystem.
Decision Integrity: Mentoring on the ethics and long-term implications of high-stakes leadership.
Board-Ready Mentorship
The Focus: Preparing the next generation of directors for governance roles.
Service on a board requires a unique skill set that is rarely taught in traditional leadership programs. I mentor professionals seeking to join or lead boards—whether for non-profits, government commissions, or private enterprise.
Acumen & Ethics: Understanding the fiduciary and strategic responsibilities of a board member.
Stakeholder Diplomacy: Navigating diverse interests to achieve collective impact.
Leadership in Governance: Transitioning from an advisory role to an executive committee or chair position.
FAQs
How is executive mentoring different from executive coaching?
1
Mentoring is a long-term, directive partnership focused on transferring wisdom and navigating broad career trajectories. Unlike short-term coaching, which targets specific skills or KPIs, my mentorship leverages 20 years of board experience to guide you through complex organizational politics, governance transitions, and the "unwritten rules" of senior leadership.
Who is the ideal candidate for this mentorship program?
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This program is designed for ambitious leaders recognized through succession planning, newly appointed CEOs, and professionals transitioning into C-suite or board roles. If you are technical expert who needs to develop "executive presence" or a business owner looking to scale their strategic mindset, this peer-to-peer partnership provides the necessary scaffolding for that growth.
How do you help leaders prepare for their first Board of Directors seat?
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Using my history on 15+ cross-sector boards, I mentor you on Board Readiness. We focus on understanding fiduciary duties, mastering board-level reporting, and learning how to influence high-stakes stakeholders without having direct operational control.
What is the typical structure and duration of a mentoring engagement?
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Mentoring relationships are inherently more flexible and longer-running than coaching, typically lasting nine months to two years. We meet less frequently than in a coaching model, but our sessions are more far-ranging, covering the broader backdrop of your career, organizational culture, and systemic leadership challenges.
Can you help me navigate difficult internal politics and "managing up" to the board?
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Yes. A core focus of my mentorship is helping you build organizational literacy. We work on strategies for building consensus, managing sensitive stakeholder relationships (like those with a Board Chair or Governor-appointed task forces), and developing the political acumen required to drive change in high-pressure environments.
Schedule a Consultation
Talk to our principal about your goals and if Steward Leaders is a fit for you.