Elevating Strategic Leadership: Coaching Through a High-Visibility Executive Transition
At The Leadership Development Group (TLD Group), we support leaders as they step into roles where the expectations grow—and so does the opportunity for impact. Recently, TLD Group coach Deborah Straka partnered with a high-performing leader who was newly appointed as the interim Vice President of one of the region’s largest nonprofit health systems, serving communities through more than 350 access points of care.
Navigating a New Level of Leadership
The leader, known for her operational excellence, faced the challenge of expanding her influence from an entity to a system level. The CEO believed coaching would help accelerate her readiness—particularly in strengthening delegation, enhancing executive presence, and lifting the performance of her executive team. Deborah met with the client and CEO to align around a few strategic coaching goals including developing a more strategic perspective, increasing team capability, and building visibility and collaboration across the organization.
A Coaching Approach Rooted in Insight, Practice, and Growth
Deborah guided the client through TLD Group’s structured coaching framework, incorporating assessment tools such as 360 feedback, the Leadership Practices Inventory (LPI), and stakeholder interviews. These insights revealed that the shift required went beyond delegation—it involved reframing how the leader saw her role, moving from hands-on operational oversight to broader strategic leadership.
Using a blend of behavioral coaching, reflective inquiry, and tools like Action Learning and Gervase Bushe’s “Walk the Cube,” Deborah helped the client understand the impact of her high achievement motive, the risks of perfectionism, and the importance of trusting her team. As the client practiced clearer communication, delegated more intentionally, and released micromanagement tendencies, she began freeing up time to think strategically, participate more fully in enterprise initiatives, and build a network at the executive level.
Meaningful Impact on the Leader and the System
The results were both measurable and visible. By developing a more strategic perspective, focusing on building her team’s capabilities, and designing collaborative solutions with peers across the system, employee engagement scores increased by 2% and per diem labor costs were reduced by 15% within 9 months of her leadership. Her top team reported feeling more heard, motivated, and inspired. The success was recognized formally as well when she was appointed permanent Vice President, and two years later advanced to an enterprise-level executive role, while two members of her top team were promoted—evidence of the broader bench strength she helped cultivate.
Reflections on the Coaching Journey
Deborah shares, “I learn something new with every coaching experience. Each client deepens my understanding of leadership challenges and the tools that create meaningful change. Seeing measurable outcomes fuels my energy and passion for this work.”
Looking Ahead
Deborah is energized by emerging opportunities to integrate digital tools and AI, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and strengthen workforce well-being—key elements shaping the future of healthcare leadership.
At TLD Group, we help leaders rise to their next chapter with clarity, confidence, and strategic focus—ensuring organizations are ready to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving health ecosystem.
Interested in supporting your leaders through moments of transition and growth? Connect with TLD Group today.