Executives and boards
need great coaching

In my work I provide executives and board members with the training, guidance, and consultation needed to maximize their impact and reach their goals. I have “walked the walk” for more than thirty years, and my clients appreciate when I call upon successes (and occasional stumbles) to help them with: fundraising and branding, succession planning and crisis leadership, and institutional turnarounds.

Executives and boards
need great coaching

In my work I provide executives and board members with the training, guidance, and consultation needed to maximize their impact and reach their goals. I have “walked the walk” for more than thirty years, and my clients appreciate when I call upon successes (and occasional stumbles) to help them with: fundraising and branding, succession planning and crisis leadership, and institutional turnarounds.

3 Essential Skills for Nonprofit Leadership

Hal and Patton McDowell discuss the ability to attract and retain top-notch talent.

Leadership for Impact

As a CEO and consultant, I have sought to raise the bar on organizational excellence. With an uncompromising commitment to the highest ethical standards and consistent high performance, my practice focuses on the real-time needs of those who lead.

 

Testimonials

  • I've led in the non-profit sector for over 25 years, constantly refining my skills. Before starting our coaching, I expressed concerns about being on the client side. Hal not only understood but tailored his coaching to exceed my needs. Hal, a coach's coach, prompts insightful reflection with pointed questions. This experience not only enhances my CEO effectiveness but positively influences how I lead my team. Effective teams stem from effective leaders guided by top-notch executive coaches. Both professionals and lay leaders I collaborate with have greatly benefited from my coaching journey with Hal.

    Jeff B. Montreal, Quebec
  • Blessed to learn and be coached by Dr. Lewis for several years, my coaching with Hal has significantly boosted my career and provided a trusted source of wisdom, professionalism, and wit. Hal's extensive knowledge and clinical experience in governance, fundraising, and development guided both me and my organization through challenges. The trust established led me to invite him to coach our Board Chair and Board of Directors, all of whom appreciated and accepted his insights with gratitude.

    Igor A. Dallas, TX
  • Over the past 5 years, I've collaborated with Hal on various aspects of my professional journey as a CEO and senior executive. From coaching through a 360 evaluation to navigating the challenges of the pandemic, his support has been instrumental in developing my leadership skills. Additionally, Hal's involvement in a Governance program with our Board of Directors and addressing issues revealed in an employee survey underscored his exceptional professionalism, knowledge, and warmth. I wholeheartedly recommend Hal as a professional coach in leadership, board governance, and management.

    Yair S. Montreal, Quebec
  • I've faced some of my most challenging professional experiences working with Hal—navigating the impact of COVID, managing leadership transitions, and handling organizational crises. Hal brings a unique blend of academic insight, executive experience, and genuine care. He listens empathically and provides "tough love" when necessary, delivering the truth you need to hear. His coaching motivates and energizes, contributing to my growth as a leader and positively influencing my board and organization. Beyond coaching, I've engaged Hal as an organizational consultant, benefitting from his instant credibility, strategic insights, and clear communication in projects such as a 360 executive evaluation and a research initiative with recommendations for staff enhancement.

    Solly K. Seattle, WA
  • As a seasoned executive, I've been privileged to work with Hal as my coach for two years. Hal's extensive executive leadership knowledge shines in one-on-one sessions, team retreats, and workshops with our board of directors, earning acclaim. Throughout coaching, Hal guided my reflection on leadership, identifying key growth areas. His critical questions focus on core issues, leading to laser-pointed strategies for superior outcomes. In a safe yet challenging environment, Hal facilitates courageous conversations, providing opportunities for self-improvement. His balanced approach illuminates clearer paths to solving complex issues, making each session a valuable source of tactics for my organization.

    Denise P. Hartford, CT
  • Over several years, Hal has played critical roles as my coach, mentor, and facilitator. His expertise extends to designing and leading training sessions for lay leaders and professional staff on roles, responsibilities, and organizational values. With decades of relevant experience and a warm demeanor, Hal instills universal trust and confidence, guiding us to swift and effective resolution of personnel challenges. His contribution has been crucial to my success, and I consistently recommend him to nonprofit colleagues. I'm deeply grateful for his counsel, wisdom, and support.

    David W. West Hartford, CT
  • As a first-time CEO and Hal's client for two years, I value his insightful business acumen and compassion. Hal enhances my awareness, focusing on short-term needs and long-term goals while helping me see the bigger picture. His wisdom propels me from analysis to action. With a deep understanding of the nonprofit sector, Hal engages effectively with lay leaders and senior staff, providing constructive feedback while maintaining confidences. I highly recommend executive coaching for any CEO or senior staff seeking success and leadership growth, with Hal as an invaluable partner.

    Tamar D. Boston, MA